The Diocese of Gloucester is proud to have supported the official opening of the Church Housing Association’s first housing scheme – seven new affordable homes at Innsworth, Gloucester.
Funded through a loan from the Gloucester Diocesan Board of Finance, the scheme provides seven homes let at or below Local Housing Allowance (LHA) levels. By going beyond the typical ‘affordable rent’ model of up to 80% of market rates, the development ensures these homes are genuinely affordable for families who need them most.
One tenant shared the impact the new home has had on their family:
“It has truly been life-changing for our family. For many years, we lived in a very small space, and it was not easy, especially for the children. Now, we have a home where my four children each have their own space to sleep, grow and feel comfortable. It has made such a difference to our daily lives.
“Seeing my older child finally able to have her own room and a quiet space to focus on her studies means so much to me as a parent. My younger children are also so happy to have their own space, and it has brought a sense of peace and stability into our home.
“We honestly were not expecting something like this, and it feels like a real blessing for us. We are deeply grateful – it truly feels like a home.”
This project is a tangible expression of the vision outlined in the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Coming Home report (2021), which called on dioceses and the wider Church to use their land, resources, and influence to deliver truly affordable housing. The report also encouraged the development of new financial models and delivery vehicles, such as the Church Housing Association, to turn vision into reality.
The Innsworth homes were developed by Taylor Wimpey in partnership with Bromford and Flagship Live West and represent an early and encouraging example of that vision being realised, with the Diocese of Gloucester playing a central enabling role.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the homes, which took place on Friday 17 April, Bishop Robert said:
“This is a genuinely historic day for the Diocese of Gloucester and for the Church’s wider mission. These seven homes at Innsworth represent far more than bricks and mortar – I have spoken often of the need to build houses that become homes and form communities.
“What we celebrate today is a sign of hope, a statement of faith in action, and a commitment to our neighbours who struggle to find a secure place to live and live well.
“The Diocese of Gloucester is proud to have supported this scheme through the Board of Finance, and I look forward to seeing this model inspire similar ventures across the country.”
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