Financial support for elderly 'Wests'

The Charities of John and Frances West for Pensioners were founded in 1710 and are administered by Christ's Hospital under a Scheme of the Charity Commissioners dated 20th July 1906, and amending scheme dated 20th July 1970. The pension paid is currently £730 per annum (to be reviewed September 2020). Around two hundred and fifty duly qualified people receive the pension.

In order to qualify they take into account your total household annual income from all sources (excluding disability benefits and carers allowance), then deduct the amount you pay for a rent or mortgage, council tax costs and water bills to calculate your net income.

If your net income for a single person is less than £12,250 per year, or for a couple £18,350 per year, you may qualify for a pension from the Charities of John and Frances West.

The Schemes and Regulations made by the Governors of Christ’s Hospital as Trustees provide that pensions shall be granted to candidates qualified as follows:

a Relationship by consanguinity to John and Frances West, which must be proved by birth and marriage certificates, as required.

b Age not less than 60 years.

c Total income to fall within limits fixed by the Trustees, which are reviewed in line with State Benefits.

d Residence in the British Isles.

Election of new pensioners takes place in April and October of each year, although in any particular year the decision as to whether an election can be held is dependant upon the money available for distribution and the number of existing pensioners.

Pensioners are elected for a term of three years, after which it is necessary to complete a further form giving details of income and outgoings. If they remain eligible they may be re-elected for a further period of three years and so on.”

If you, or anyone you know might benefit from this kind of support, please contact:

Mrs Janet Young
The Counting House
Christ's Hospital
Horsham
RH13 0YP

01403 247555

jey@christs-hospital.org.uk

The Charities of John and Frances West also support the education of children at Christ's Hospital School, an 11-18 independent school for children from all walks of life. Since September  2010 there has been an amendment to how the Wests’ Gift Scheme has been applied to potential applicants related to John and Frances West by consanquinity to Christ’s Hospital School. There is now no reduction in the assessed parental contribution for children who join the school as Wests’ Gift Presentees. However, there is still an advantage in applying under this method as candidates compete only within the Wests’ Gift category. In addition, Christ’s Hospital continue to provide support to over 95% of its pupils’ places to a greater or lesser extent with families on a very low income paying nothing at all. The amendment to the Scheme does mean that financial support available to applicants , particularly those in need, can be more evenly distributed.

Christ’s Hospital warmly welcomes applications from members of the John and Frances West Family Group.

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