Facilities
Residents in all of our accommodation do not hold tenancy agreements as they would in open-market housing. Instead of paying rent, they pay a monthly maintenance charge and a service charge. The maintenance charge covers the cost of keeping the buildings in good condition, as well as the administration of the charity, while the service charge covers access to additional facilities. Together, these charges include the use of the accommodation, building insurance, heating and lighting of communal areas, use of the communal laundry, and, where applicable, the services of a warden. Combined, these costs are significantly lower than market rental rates for similar properties in the area. The charges are reviewed annually. Residents remain responsible for their own utility bills, as they would in other housing, and are free to choose their own suppliers for services such as electricity and telephone. Residents are also required to pay Council Tax, with all properties falling within Council Tax Bands A and B.
Skeales Court
Skeales Court has 30 one-bedroom flats over two floors. There are stair lifts to all first-floor flats, and all the flats have night storage heaters. The building has cavity wall and roof insulation to modern standards. The site has a well-maintained communal garden which residents can enjoy in good weather and a communal lounge where residents can socialise with each other. Regular activities such as exercise classes, church services, chiropody services and festive meals are provided for those residents who want to participate. A warden is on site 5 days a week and the flats all have CareLine alarms. There is a communal laundry on site.
The Trust
The one-bedroom bungalows do not have an on-site warden; however, residents can expect a weekly visit from a warden. Residents are able to make use of the communal facilities and participate in activities at William Tansley Smith House next door, which is operated by the London Borough of Havering. They are also welcome to join activities at Skeales Court. These properties also benefit from a 24hr CareLine service.
Each bungalow benefits from its own outdoor space, providing residents with the opportunity to enjoy gardening if they wish.
Wolseley Road Maisonettes
The maisonettes in Romford are conveniently located close to shops, a park, a medical centre, and local bus services. While they do not have communal facilities or a resident warden, residents can expect a monthly home visit from a warden.
These properties are particularly suited to individuals who prefer more independent living. However, residents are also welcome to take part in communal activities at Skeales Court. Each maisonette also benefits from its own private garden.
The Airfield
The charity has recently acquired 12 one-bedroom maisonettes and houses with gardens, designed for residents who prefer more independent living. These properties are conveniently located on a local bus route, offering easy access to Hornchurch and Romford. A Tesco store, a small parade of shops, and Hornchurch Country Park are all within a short walking distance.
