FAQS

Mainly through investment returns. Unlike most charities, we do not fundraise in the traditional sense; our funds are generated from the returns on our investment portfolio. We work with investment and legal experts, along with the Charity Commission, to ensure the best returns and then re-invest these funds in to other areas of our charitable work.

A mixture of financial investments (including UK and global equities) and residential and commercial properties. Our residential properties range from one-bedroom apartments to entire Georgian townhouses. We have approximately 70 properties, most in Bath city centre. Our commercial properties are let to a range of tenants, including independent and international retailers, cafes, restaurants and offices; many based within the busiest commercial areas of Bath.

We rent to the public and commercial tenants. Our residential and commercial properties are advertised on the open market, in line with market rates. Many tenants specifically choose to rent from us, knowing that their rental fees are then reinvested to help support our activities and projects in the wider community.

Yes, they are rented on the open market. Our numerous residential properties are available to rent by the public. If you are applying to live in one of our almshouses, there are specific criteria which you can find by emailing good.living@stjohnsbath.org.uk. Rental returns on our residential and commercial properties go towards subsidising our almshouses and other charitable activities.

Please enquire through our agents – Carter Jonas
Email: bath@carterjonas.co.uk
Phone: 01225 747250

Charges for our alms apartments vary depending on the accommodation offered.

There is a weekly maintenance charge, which includes a rental charge, heating and water rates. The charge also covers general repairs, cleaning of communal areas, gardening, and landscaping. Some people may be entitled to housing benefits. To speak to a member of our team about the cost of available alms-apartments, email goodliving.enquiries@stjohnsbath.org.uk or call 01225 486401.

St John’s does not provide care as we are not a care provider. The provider is determined by the resident and the commissioning authority (BaNES). Our advisors will support residents to find a suitable care provider, who will, of course, be CQC registered. The cost of care is determined by the provider chosen by residents.

Independence means different things to people. Most will agree few things are valued more than our independence. And, while ageing can sometimes make living on one’s own difficult, we recognise the importance of helping older adults remain self-sufficient. Here at St John’s, we do all we can to ensure the continued well-being and opportunities of older adults.

Absolutely. There is a fantastic community atmosphere at St John’s that you can be involved in as much or as little as you wish. Examples of the sort of things on offer include Silver Swans Ballet, curry & quiz nights, themed evenings, musical events, book clubs, afternoon teas – all of which are organised by the residents’ social committee.

Professional Support Worker of a registered Charity. We rely on our Professional Referrers to provide us with accurate, relevant information in order for us to make a decision to award funding.

On average, five working days. We are able to respond quickly once an applications has been submitted, sometimes within hours. However, we aim to make a decision within five working days.

We support applications facing six key social issues:

• Health and Wellbeing
• Housing
• Isolation
• Poverty
• Relationships
• Employment and Skills

To promote wellbeing within our community. Informal research showed that there was a real social need to give people, over the age of 55, an outlet for creativity, a dedicated space in which to do it and which didn’t incur costly membership fees. It was also an opportunity for us to embrace a wider public.

A wide range that changes from month to month. Activities generally fall within the areas of Health & Wellbeing, Life Skills and Education.

Sample classes include: Aromatherapy, Art, Ballet, Cookery, IT, Knitting, Photography, Pilates, Reflexology, Tai Chi, Textiles and Yoga.

Some activities are free of charge, some will incur a cost. Where courses are free, we welcome a small donation.

Any charge incurred will reflect the style of the course and materials used. In all cases, full details will be available in the What’s On Guide.

Yes, it’s available to hire to other approved organisations. The Bubble’s city centre setting makes it very accessible and ideal for hosting a variety of activities.

We are keen to develop more working partnerships and are pleased to make The Bubble available for hire as part of this approach.

People, over 55, who live in Bath and the surrounding area. Many classes require pre-registration, so attendees are advised to check the timetable for availability first. Most activities take place after 10am to keep travel costs low. Some health-related courses may require a referral if places are limited.