Press Release - Historic Almshouse Charities Unite in Southampton

17th September 2025

From 1st October 2025, Barlows & Ellyett Homes for Aged Women will formally merge with Thorner’s Homes, bringing together two of Southampton’s oldest almshouse charities under one banner.

Thorners traces its origins back to 1690, with the first almshouses opening in 1793. For more than two centuries, it has provided safe, affordable accommodation for those in need.

Barlows & Ellyett Homes for Aged Women, located in Shirley, has an equally rich history. The original almshouses were erected in 1839 by the Rev. Herbert Smith, providing free rent accommodation for 24 residents. After Rev. Smith’s death in 1876, the Homes faced sale and closure, but a public fundraising effort, including major contributions from Andrew Barlow and Richard Dyer Ellyett, secured and expanded the charity. Later improvements converted the almshouses into 16 modern one-bedroom flats.

By uniting, the charities will strengthen their shared mission of almshouse provision, secure their legacies, and ensure resilience for future generations.

As part of the merger, the Trustees of Barlows & Ellyett will join the Board of Thorner’s Homes CIO, ensuring continuity of stewardship across both traditions.

Paul Meacher, Chair of Thorner’s Homes, said:

“This is a historic moment for almshouse provision in Southampton. Thorner’s Homes and Barlows & Ellyett have both served the city faithfully for centuries. By coming together, we can ensure that these proud traditions of housing and service remain strong for the future.”

Andy Barnett, Chair of Barlow & Ellyett Trustees, said:

“Barlows & Ellyett Homes has been part of the Southampton community since 1839, and our founders’ generosity has provided secure homes for older women for nearly two centuries. We are proud of that legacy, and we see this merger with Thorner’s Homes as the best way to protect and strengthen it for the future. Our trustees are pleased to be joining the Thorner’s Homes CIO board, ensuring that the history and values of Barlows & Ellyett remain at the heart of this new chapter.”

The merger will not affect the day-to-day living arrangements of residents. Instead, it will allow for greater resilience, more efficient use of resources, and a stronger platform for meeting housing needs in the decades ahead.

The united charity will continue to be known as Thorner’s Homes, but will carry forward the combined strength, heritage, and stewardship of both organisations.