Our mission is to provide our residents with a safe, secure and happy living environment.
Find out more about our residents here.
The Home of Devenish was founded in 1961 with a bequest from Major John Devenish to provide accommodation for Christian widows of C of E Clergy and Officers of HM Armed Forces. The first six bungalows and two maisonettes were completed soon after. Another 16 bungalows followed. For more on the history of the Trust and its properties, click here.
Recently, our remit expanded to include single Christian women who are themselves retired C of E clergy or retired officers in HM Armed Forces.
More than 100 women have lived in our houses since our foundation. They have ranged in age from 60 to 105. All have enjoyed the sense of community and valued the peace and tranquillity of the estates and gardens – each making her new home her own.
To find out whether you qualify for a home with us, please click here. If you would like to find out more, get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.
The Trust does not depend on public appeals and donations, and, as well as providing housing for its residents, supports other charities assisting ladies who would qualify to reside in The Homes.
Sorting out a curtain issue
Meet the team
Our dedicated team work with our residents to keep them independent and make the day-to-day operation of our homes and estates run smoothly.
We have two permanent members of staff, Lesley and Alex.
Lesley is our General Manager. It's a busy job: apart from the paper work, Lesley usually visits the estates three times a week, and will spend time with several of the ladies. She calls in on those who are more housebound or ill. She is available on the phone and will visit anyone who wants to see her, whether just to chat or to sort out any problems.
Alex is the Estate Manager. He is the first port of call if any of the ladies press their alarm buttons. Both he and Lesley are on call 24/7. If Alex is not available, Lesley gets the calls. Alex oversees all work done on the estates and will help the ladies put in light bulbs, move gardens pots, untangle curtain rails, and so on. He visits the sites on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.
Alex and one of our residents
We have a team of local tradesmen who have been working with us and our residents for many years. Among our regulars are Ian the gardener, Chris the plumber, Barry the window cleaner and Will who does decorating and odd jobs as needed.
Ian at work in the communal gardens
Judy, who was manager for more than 20 years, chatting with one of our residents
Alex helping move pots
Ian, the gardener
Chris, the plumber
Will, the handy man
Barry, the window cleaner