Bedford Citizens Housing Association

History

Bedford Citizens' Housing Association (BCHA) was formed in 1957 for the purpose of "housing elderly people of limited means". In co-operation with the local authorities the Association agreed to convert suitable existing houses for the elderly, and the local authority proceeded with new buildings for the elderly. Initial capital was raised by the issue of loan stock which produced £13,000 and loans were obtained from the local authority for the conversions.

The first house was opened in 1958 and further houses opened at approximately one per year until 1964.

In 1963, it became evident that a number of tenants needed more care and attention than could be provided by Sheltered Housing and arrangements were made to build a residential home to be called Bedford Charter House to house 48 people. The Borough Council were able to loan the Association £100,000 towards this project. The new building was finally opened in 1970 and an extension was built shortly afterwards due to demand.

In 1986 the Association was approached by the Maydenbury Housing Association Limited to take over their stock and absorb their Association within BCHA and, after discussions with the Housing Corporation, this was agreed and the Association acquired eight further houses and a new purpose built Sheltered Housing scheme of 30 units.

BCHA directly owns 125 units of accommodation as well as managing other units on behalf of other local charities.