St John's & St Nicholas’ Hospitals, Canterbury

Application for Indwellers’ (residents) Accommodation

Before applying you should be aware there is often a lengthy list of applicants for the Hospitals. When a vacancy occurs, everyone on the waiting list is considered.

The Hospital of St John’s, Canterbury is an Almshouse Charity providing sheltered accommodation to persons in need who are able to look after themselves. Successful applicants will be over 60 years of age and will have lived around the City of Canterbury or have had a close family connection within the area for at least 3 years.

The Hospital (almshouses), of St John the Baptist, in 1085, along with the Hospital of St Nicholas Harbledown, in 1084, were established by Archbishop Lanfranc to provide sheltered accommodation for poor people who were vulnerable, frail and (especially at Harbledown) disabled. Modern definitions of poverty and need are different from those days, but the Trustees try to ensure the original aims are still respected in the admission of people as Indwellers (residents) of the two Hospitals. The original idea behind the foundation of the Hospitals was that each one would be a self-contained community, centered around the chapel and its regular services. The Trustees try to ensure Indwellers (residents) respect this and are willing to share in this important aspect of life at both Hospitals. However, the Trustees are willing to admit as residents, people who are not members of the Church of England, and recognise Indwellers (residents) sometimes worship in other places. The Chapel remains at the heart of the community.

St John’s Hospital is in Canterbury very close to the City centre and the Cathedral, St Nicholas Hospital is in Harbledown, Canterbury. Both are set in stunning grounds. 

Everyone admitted as an Indweller (resident) is required by the Trustees to have in place a Lasting Power of Attorney at the time of becoming a resident of either Hospitals. On application the hospital should be appointed to be notified when the Power of Attorney has been issued. The sole purpose of this is to ensure we have details of your Attorney(s). Individuals who already have the document in place need to supply a copy of the contact details of their Attorney(s) when they apply.

Click the apply button to be taken to a secure application form.

Community events and support

For information about open days, tours, to book visits, to make a donation to the organisation or simply find out about current opportunities please click the link below. 

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