FAQ's

How do I apply?

There is a set process for application for residence in one of our almshouses, Drapers Homes, involving completion of an application form, a home visit by the Care Manager and an interview with senior staff and/or Trustees. This is to ensure that you qualify to be an almshouse resident under the criteria set down by our founder and also to prioritise the offer of places dependent on individual need. Application is only open to those of limited financial means, and priority is given to those who are residents of Thanet and/or members of the Society of Friends. If you are considering applying, we would suggest that in the first instance you telephone and make an appointment to visit the site and collect an application form.

Application for a place in residential care such as Yoakley House, is primarily dependent on your need for assistance with personal care. We accept application from those who are able to fund themselves and from those who will require funding by Social Services. Should you be dependent on Social Services funding, you will need to meet their criteria for placement and we would therefore recommend that you contact them to be assessed prior to completing our application process. If you are considering applying, we would suggest that in the first instance you telephone and make an appointment to visit the site if you are able, or simply request that your name be placed on our waiting list. The Care Manager will then make arrangements to visit you at home and full assessment of your personal needs will be made so that we can ensure Yoakley House has all the facilities necessary to meet those needs.

Waiting Lists

Please be aware that at the time of writing (October 2008), both Drapers Homes and Yoakley House have substantial waiting lists.

Once accepted on to our waiting list you will remain on there until such time as you notify us that you are happily settled elsewhere. We will contact you when a suitable vacancy arises and you are top of the list. As vacancies are totally dependent on the health and wellbeing of existing residents, it is impossible to say how long you will have to wait to be offered a place.

Personal Possessions

Once you are part of our community, this is your home. We encourage residents to bring their own possessions and personal furniture, as long as it fits comfortably into your cottage or room and does not create a safety hazard for staff, other residents or indeed yourself. Most new residents find that they have to significantly downsize their belongings before moving in and we do not provide additional storage space. There is limited insurance cover provided for personal belongings under our almshouse policy, but we recommend that all residents take out their own personal contents insurance.

How Can I Help?

Michael Yoakley’s Charity has a successful League of Friends, who are involved in supporting the wellbeing of all residents by volunteering their services at events on site as well as raising funds. Membership costs £5 per annum. Please contact Yoakley House for more details or see the dedicated page on this website.