Priti Patel MP recently met with key figures in Witham to discuss the role of almshouses in providing social housing.

The MP for Witham met with members from Witlet, Witham United Charities, and the national Almshouse Association to address the issue.

Charles Ryland, director of Witlet, is collaborating with Witham United Charities and the Almshouse Association to support the historic charity.

The charity currently owns 17 almshouse properties, providing housing for people from Witham, often elderly, of limited financial means.

During the meeting, Ms Patel discussed with Mr Ryland and Almshouse Association chief executive Nick Phillips the challenges hindering the growth of almshouses and their ability to offer affordable social housing.

Ms Patel said after the meeting: "I would like to thank Witlet, Witham United Charities, and the Almshouse Association for meeting with me to discuss the vital role they are playing in providing social housing in the constituency.

"Almshouses face a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to funding and recognition, to support those most in need of housing.

"I will work with our local businesses and charities on this matter so that we can expand the social housing options they are able to provide."

The current definition of affordable housing in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) excludes almshouses, recognising only regulated housing providers.

This limits almshouses' access to Section 106 support unless they undergo an extensive process of becoming regulated.

Most almshouses have fewer than 20 units, and 80 per cent are not regulated by the Government's Regulator of Social Housing.