Lewisham Almshouse Charities of William Hatcliffe and Abraham Colfe
We receive many applications from residents in the London Borough of Lewisham requesting a license to live in one of the 11 flats in our Colfe & Ratcliffe Glebe almshouse and once a vacancy has arisen, we endeavour to appoint a new resident as a beneficiary as soon as possible. Residents often then stay with us for the rest of their lives.
Applications are welcome for the Colfe & Hatcliffe Glebe from residents of the London Borough of Lewisham and the Trustees then appoint a resident of each flat on an ‘in need’ basis.
Almshouse Living
The weekly maintenance contribution (WMC) residents are required to pay varies but is currently between £120 and £160 depending on the flat. The charges are reviewed annually. Residents become beneficiaries of the charity and are not tenants. A form of licence must be signed, and residents must also sign to say that they will abide by the rules and regulations pertaining to the almshouses.
Our History
The Rev. Abraham Colfe was vicar of Lewisham from 1610 until his death in 1657. During that time, he built a school for 31 pupils with the aim of providing education to under privileged boys. Colfe also provided scholarships to allow pupils to continue their education at prestigious universities. At his request and upon his death, Colfe’s will was entrusted to The Leatherseller’s Company, which was one of the oldest and well-established livery companies in London, they were required to continue the provision of education, bursaries, and scholarships and to provide five almshouses for spinsters and widows over the age of 60
Empowering Independent Living
Through our Colfe & Hatcliffe Glebe, we are dedicated to providing affordable housing for those over 60.
We aim to support those in financial hardship, ensuring a dignified and independent lifestyle for our residents in a community they know.
Affordable Accommodation
The flats in the Glebe are genuinely affordable.
Community Support Services
We have strong links with the local community, in particular St Mary’s the Virgin, Lewisham’s Parish Church.
Rich Historical Legacy
Founded in 1664, we honour our commitment to the community.