For over five centuries, the Municipal and Owen Carter Almshouse Charity has remained true to its mission: to provide homes that offer dignity, independence, and a sense of belonging for the people of Poole. The latter Almshouses at The Old Rope Walk, Hamworthy, were built for workers of the local Carter Tile and Poole Pottery industry in 1904 and the 1960’s but have evolved over time to include all workers from the BCP area who may find themselves in need.
“We care for our residents, though we do not provide care for them”
We are governed by the Charity Commission; Social Housing Regulators and The Housing Ombudsman. The principal objectives of the Charity are to ensure that it continues to serve those in genuine need of almshouse accommodation, that the Homes are maintained to modern standards in order to provide an acceptable quality of life for the residents, and that the Charity is properly funded and administered.
Eligibility
Eligibility is based on criteria laid out in Governing Document. Residents must be from the BCP area, of state pension age and either retired or working minimal hours and in financial need. Further information can be found on our FAQ’s and Eligibility Policy
Continuous Support
Our Resident warden, and 24/7 Careline Monitoring scheme ensure that our residents feel safe in their homes. We also have Memory Groups, Keep Fit Classes and other social activities organised
Independent Living
Residents must be able to live independently in their own homes within the connection of the Almshouse community
Affordable Homes
Our Weekly Maintenance Contributions are kept inline with Housing Benefits and the cost of living and increase each year inline with inflation.
Board of Trustees
The Charity is run by an experienced board of 10 Trustees with an array of skills and expertise who volunteer their time for the running of the charity.
Two Sites
The Old Rope Walk in Hamworthy has 38 one-bedroom properties whilst our smaller sister site in the Old Town of Poole has four properties.
Almshouse Accomodation
Each property consists of a ground floor, self-contained flat with the following;
- One-bedroom (Double)
- Kitchen
- Lounge
- Bathroom with Wet-room style shower
- Utility closet
- Communal Gardens and Patio
Communal Facilities included in Weekly Maintenance Contribution
- Laundry Facilities
- Communal Lounge and Hall
- Attractive Gardens
- Secluded cul-de-sac with on street parking available for all residents
- Warden and Careline Monitoring Services
- Communal events and activities
Donations and Legacies
We welcome donations from private individuals, charitable trusts and corporate bodies. You could also help the work of the Charity by leaving a legacy in your Will. This would really make a difference to our future, so if you feel able to do so, please do consider it. We can advise on how to do this.
Carol Evans
Chairwoman, The Municipal and Owen Carter Almshouse Charity 2026
The Old Rope Walk 