"For anybody who’s thinking of moving here, I’d say it’s the best thing you could do."

Lench’s Trust has been putting roofs over Birmingham heads for almost 500 years.

Little wonder it’s a city icon.

Formed in 1525 through a bequest by tanner William Lench, who asked that his money be used for local works of charity, Lench’s Trust now operates over-55s sheltered accommodation schemes in Moseley, Quinton and Sutton Coldfield for those facing financial hardship or social isolation.

Lench’s Trust offers one and two bedroom apartments in lovely surroundings with communal facilities and experienced staff on hand.

Sheltered housing, independent living

Lench’s Close is on Wake Green Road in the heart of Moseley. This property features 64 one-bedroom apartments and a very active community with residents enjoying gardening and lunch clubs.

Lench’s Close facilities include an activity room, hairdressing salon, laundry room and computer access.

Tanner’s Close, in Sutton Coldfield (close to Good Hope Hospital), is the smallest Lench's Trust sheltered housing scheme.

Featuring 24 one-bedroom apartments and a superb communal room full of activities and laughter, and also used by the wider community including Whitehouse Ladies Club, Tanner’s Close also offers a laundry room, computer access, communal gardens and a small library.

William Lench Court offers extra care and support

William Lench Court in Quinton is a recently developed purpose built social housing complex, close to the Ridgacre Medical Practice.

Independent living is encouraged by the team, which is on site 24/7 for residents requiring assistance. Care packages can be tailored to meet individual needs, and utilities are funded by the Trust, saving residents money.

William Lench Court facilities include a shop, gym, hair salon, launderette, restaurant, activity rooms and a library.

Safe and secure

Lench’s Trust has an in-house maintenance team to ensure all properties are kept in great shape.

Security is also taken very seriously with CCTV and restricted access, while respecting residents’ privacy.

With half a millennium providing safe and cosy places to live, Lench’s Trust continues to work its magic.

Resident Margaret said: “For anybody who’s thinking of moving here, I’d say it’s the best thing you could do."

To find out more about Lench’s Trust sheltered housing schemes for yourself or someone who deserves to live better, contact housing adviser Annemarie on 0121 426 0455 - or apply at lenchs-trust.co.uk/application-for-housing.