Our History

We were established in 1967 as the Teachers’ Benevolent Fund Housing Association. Initially focused on providing sheltered housing for elderly teachers, we later expanded to include general needs housing for teachers and others in London. Teachers’ Housing Association was formed in response to the housing difficulties faced by retired teachers, particularly those connected with the National Union of Teachers.

Our timeline:

• 1967: On 16 May 1967 Teachers’ Benevolent Fund Housing Association was formally registered as a housing association.
• Early Focus: The initial aim was to provide sheltered housing for retired teachers.
• Expansion: In the early 1970s, the association began providing general needs housing for teachers and others in London.
• Key Development: Queen Mother Court in Bournville, Birmingham, was the first sheltered housing scheme, officially opened by the Queen Mother in 1970.
• Continued Growth: Several more sheltered housing schemes were developed in the following years, including Dunham Gardens (Hull), New Park Gardens (Stoke on Trent), The Anchorage (Christchurch), The Dene (Rottingdean), and Romaleyn Gardens (Paignton).
• Current Operations: We currently own and manage 654 units, including sheltered housing, general needs housing for rent, and a small number of leasehold properties. Whilst we prioritise teaching professionals, our offer now extends to providing housing for all key workers, not just teachers.