Living in The Glebe

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. The Trustees require that the WMC is paid in advance by Standing Order to the Trustees’ bank account and it is preferred that it is set up as a weekly payment. Many residents qualify for housing benefit and the current system in Lewisham is that this is paid directly to individuals.

The WMC covers the cost of all the heating and the lighting and cleaning of communal areas. Laundry facilities are provided which may be used by residents at a cost of £1 per wash or dry and tokens for the machines can be purchased from the House Manger each week. Residents may have their own washing machines where space allows. The Trustees maintain all the common areas including the gardens. Flats are redecorated between residents and otherwise deemed as necessary by the Trustees. Flats are provided with carpets and curtains or blinds. Residents should not make any alterations, carry out redecoration or install shelving, etc, without the prior permission of the Trustees.

Electricity is metered and is billed quarterly to residents. All residents are responsible for the payment of their own Council Tax: the majority of the flats are in band A or B. Our almshouse is covered by a Concessionary TV Licence, allowing residents to benefit from a reduction in TV licensing fees to £7.50 per year. (those over 75 will have a free licence as usual).

Whilst telephone points are provided, the Trustees cannot take any responsibility for ensuring a connection and residents must make their own arrangements for this with a telecom provider. Neither building is connected to cable, but the option for connecting to Sky TV is available with each resident being responsible for setting up their own account. Digital TV is of course available via set-top box or smart TV, with each resident supplying their own.

At the Colfe and Hatcliffe Glebe the Trustees provide each flat with an electric cooker and hob, fridge/freezer and a microwave oven. The water is not metered, and the charges are met by the Trustees.

Whilst the information contained in this document was correct at the time of writing the Trustees may alter the detailed arrangements for the running of the almshouses at any time. This will not normally be done without consultation or sufficient notice unless it is beyond the control of the Trustees.