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Houses in the John Cornwell Victoria Cross National Memorial Almshouse

The Military Mutual are delighted to be supporting The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust (RNBT) with a project for the John Cornwell Victoria Cross National Memorial (JCVCNM) Almshouse.

The Almshouse – which houses former sailors and Royal Marines who sustained disabilities during their service, and their families – is overseen by The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust. The Military Mutual are helping to fund a project that will improve the community environment and resident safety.

The JCVCNM was established in 1928 to remember Boy Seaman John Cornwell who died from injuries in the Battle of Jutland where he was onboard HMS Chester.

A community of six cottage homes was built to accommodate disabled or infirm veteran sailors, and to this day stands as a lasting memorial to John Cornwell. The semi-detached cottages were built in a specific layout to represent the Victoria Cross in their own grounds in Hornchurch, Essex.

Today, the community provides subsidised housing and is open to disadvantaged and disabled veteran sailors and Royal Marines, and their families, who are able to care for themselves.

The project will ensure that each property is fitted with a personal alarm system, so residents are able to contact an emergency response centre, should an incident occur.

Lee Mooney, managing director, The Military Mutual said, “We’re thrilled to be able to support this fantastic project. The Military Mutual was established to support the military community and causes, and The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust is one such organisation that shares our purpose. That’s why we understand the importance of projects like these and are keen to help. We want to help take care of The RNBT Family, as part of the wider military family.”