Contact before applying
Appointments to view St Mary’s and any apartments, when available, can be arranged by contacting supportteam@stmarysalmshouses.org.uk or 01243 783377.
Applications
Applying to live at St Mary’s
The application process is considered carefully by the Trustees, with priority given to eligible applicants from qualifying parishes.
How applications are considered
The St Mary’s Hospital Trustees welcome applications for admission to the almshouses, which are considered at least twice a year. Priority is given to those who live in the Diocese of Chichester parishes, any part of which is within 15 miles of the Cathedral.
St Mary’s has 40 almshouses and vacancies are only rarely available — since January 2023 only five almshouses have become available to let. Prospective applicants are welcome to apply, but should be aware that the application process, even if successful, will take several months and in some cases years.
Applications received will be acknowledged and assessed by a Trustees panel which meets twice yearly. In 2026 these assessments will take place in April and again in October.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to study the eligibility criteria and the accompanying notes for applicants in the downloadable documents below. Where possible, applications should be submitted online rather than on paper.
Who can apply
- Be of limited financial means.
- Be in sufficiently good health to cook and housekeep for themselves.
- Be of good character.
- Have resided for the five years preceding their application in an ecclesiastical parish in the Diocese of Chichester, any part of which is within 15 miles of the Cathedral Church of Chichester.
- Be in sympathy with the religion of the Church of England.
Step-by-step application process
- 1
Read the eligibility guidance
- 2
Contact St Mary’s with any questions
- 3
Complete the application
- 4
Trustees review applications
- 5
Suitable applicants may be contacted when accommodation is available