Welcome to independent retirement living from the Printing Charity

Thinking about a retirement home, or investigating choices for a relative?

I have a great feeling of safety and security, living here. The staff are considerate and caring; if I’ve ever needed anything, they’ve been here for me

Resident, Les

The Printing Charity’s independent living developments are part of the Almshouse Association. They provide an affordable retirement community for people who have worked in print, packaging, paper, publishing or the graphic arts for at least three years during their career, or are dependents of someone who has.

Enquire about our Almshouse vacancies today

Affordable homes in Basildon and Bletchley

Our retirement homes are located in Basildon, Essex, and Bletchley, Milton Keynes. Residents enjoy one-bedroom, self-contained apartments within purpose-built developments close to local shops, transport links and other amenities. Our retirement homes provide an affordable and safe community for those of reduced financial means, and we welcome applications from people receiving housing benefit.

A safe and supportive community

The developments enjoy large communal spaces and grounds, creating a welcoming, supportive independent living community. Residents can choose to join in with a calendar of activities and events, with lots of opportunities to meet and spend time with new friends and neighbours. 

If ever needed, help is on hand through a small on-site team, and out-of-hours community alarm service.

Enquire today. We’d love to hear from you.

Complete the form below, e-mail support@theprintingcharity.org.uk, or call our friendly team on 01293 542 820.

Hear from our residents and their relatives

“It’s a lovely place. It’s very friendly here. I’d say to anyone, it’s the best thing you can do, it’s really nice here. I’m very glad I came.”
– Rose, resident

Read Rose’s full story

“There’s a really nice feel to the place, and its lovely and safe. I am relieved that my mum has someone she can call on if needed.”
– Laura, daughter of resident Rose

Read Laura’s full story

“I have a great feeling of safety and security, living here. The staff are considerate and caring; if I’ve ever needed anything, they’ve been here for me.”
– Les, resident

Read Les’s full story

“The homes are unique because they’re designed for members of the printing and allied trades. If you want to stay close to the printing community in retirement, come and have a look!”
– Bob, resident

Read Bob’s full story

A welcome from our homes managers

“Beaverbrook is a great place for retirement living, with a true community spirit, and residents who help and support each other. The community is very helpful, very friendly and very respectful to each other; residents are supported to live their lives how they want, and there are plenty of activities to get involved with as much or as little as they choose. I’d say to anyone considering a move to Beaverbrook: you’re very welcome. Come and have a look around and see what it’s like for yourself. ”

Chris, Home Manager, Beaverbrook House

Find out more about life at Beaverbrook

Chris Rayner
Jeanette McQuilliam

“I look forward very much to welcoming you to Southwood, a caring, safe and friendly community where residents enjoy a happy, healthy retirement. There are plenty of opportunities to make new friends, with a regular programme of different activities to enjoy, but no pressure to get involved. We pride ourselves in going above and beyond what might be expected, helping wherever help is needed. See for yourself what Southwood has to offer: come and visit us.”

Jeanette, Home Manager, Southwood Court

Find out more about life at Southwood

Our Homes’ eligibility criteria

  • Retired from a career where at least three years have been spent working in print, packaging, paper, publishing or graphics; OR retired, and with an immediate family connection to the sector
  • Reduced financial means
  • Able to live independently
  • We review all applicants’ situations individually, so please contact our team to discuss in more detail

Learn more and share details about our retirement living options.

What’s new

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What it’s like to live in our retirement homes: Bob’s story

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Get in touch

If you, or someone you know needs support, or you’d like to know more about our free, confidential helpline, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

To find out more give us a call on 01293 542 820
or click the button below.

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