Frequently Asked Questions …

1. Would I be a tenant?
1. No, you would be a resident who pays a fee (Weekly Maintenance Contribution) .

2. What age of person lives there?
1. There are residents from 55 to 80+ years.  Some women are still working, others have retired. 
2. Some residents like to socialise with others and some prefer to keep themselves private – the College community allows you to do either comfortably.
3. Many of the residents have creative skills, such as arts and crafts, that they share with others.
   
   
3. What support services would I receive?
1. Residents should be fit and able bodied.
2. A weekly visiting nurse will help older residents with their medication and prescription collections.
   
   
4. What bills would I have to pay?
1. Your WMC pays for your central heating, hot water, water rates and general maintenance.
2. You would have to pay separately for your electricity, council tax, telephone and (depending on your age) your TV licence.

5. Where can I shop?
1. There are shops, twice weekly markets and chain stores in Hungerford and Marlborough.
2. There are doorstep deliveries for milk and other general provisions.
3. Further afield, in Newbury, Swindon and Reading there is a broader selection of stores, cinemas and leisure facilities.

6. Is there a library nearby?
1. There is a visiting Mobile Library plus a public Library in Marlborough.
2. There is also a library of books in the Board Room at the College which is freely available to all residents.
   
   
7. Can I get train and bus connections ?
1. There is a regular bus service to Hungerford and Marlborough and beyond to Newbury and Swindon.
2. There is a Community Bus service which is affordable and which calls at the College for pick up and set down.
3. Hungerford has a regular train service to London Paddington via Newbury and Reading.
4. The bus/coach from Marlborough, to London each morning has a request stop at the College.
   
   
8. What type of accommodation is it?
1. The cottages are ‘ compact’.  There is a small entrance hall, a living room and small kitchen downstairs and 1 bedroom and separate bathroom upstairs.
   
   
9. Will I be able to bring my own furniture?
1. Yes, the properties are not furnished, but viewing is essential.  In most cases people find they will have to ‘down-size’ and be selective about the furniture they bring with them.
   
   
10. Will I be able to store any furniture I don’t use?
1. Unfortunately, the College has no facilities to store anyone’ s furniture, so viewing and measuring prior to occupancy is essential.
2. Small, lockable stores are sited outside for garden items if necessary.
   

The Duchess of Somerset's Hospital
Froxfield,
Marlborough,
Wiltshire,
SN8 3LA


Reg. Charity No. 202650