Joseph Crossley's Almshouses

Joseph Crossley's Almshouses is a registered charity established to provide sheltered housing for elderly people of good character, facilitating a safe and supportive community environment. The charity is governed by a volunteer board of trustees and supported by two part-time wardens who help manage the site and its operations.

History

The almshouses were originally built in 1863 by Joseph Crossley, son of John and Martha Crossley, founders of the Crossley Carpets empire at Dean Clough. The initial structure was a single east-facing block, soon expanded with two side wings, completing the current site layout by 1869 under the direction of Joseph’s son, Edward, after Joseph's death. The south wing includes a chapel for residents, which continues to hold weekly services on Thursday afternoons. The almshouses maintain a tradition of an annual Founder's Day service held in the chapel on the fourth Saturday in June, followed by a tea served to residents by the trustees.

Joseph Crossley’s almshouses were originally intended for retired employees of the Crossley company. On becoming residents, individuals received essential furnishings and a small pension funded by the Crossley family. Over time, the conditions and benefits evolved; pension payments ceased, but improvements included enlarging flats and upgrades to the facilities in the early 1980s. The charity now also supports social activities such as an annual summer coach trip for residents through a maintained small fund.

Facilities and Community

The Joseph Crossley Homes site comprises 32 flats along with an office, an on-site chapel, and a meeting room. The charity emphasizes fostering a community atmosphere where residents are encouraged to participate in chapel services and communal events.

Governance and Finances

The charity operates under the oversight of nine trustees, none of whom receive remuneration or financial benefits. Financial reports for the year ending June 2023 indicate an income of approximately £127,749 with expenditures slightly higher at £152,583. The charity does not engage in trading subsidiaries or paid fundraising activities. It has received grants, such as one awarded by the Community Foundation for Calderdale in May 2024, totaling £2,268.

Mission

The fundamental mission of Joseph Crossley’s Almshouses is to provide suitable housing for elderly individuals who meet specific criteria, ensuring they live in a secure and community-oriented environment that honors the charitable intentions of its founder.

This charitable institution remains an important part of the heritage and social fabric of its local community, continuing to provide support and shelter rooted in Victorian philanthropic tradition[1][2][3][5].

[1] http://josephcrossleyhomes.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/224669 [3] http://josephcrossleyhomes.org.uk/the-almshouses [4] https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/charity/joseph-crossleys-almshouses [5] https://grantnav.threesixtygiving.org/org/GB-CHC-224669