For 38 years, Rob McClearly worked as a black-cab driver in London, spending his days engaging with locals, tourists, and famous personalities.

As he approached retirement, the gregarious cab driver hesitated, fearing the transition from a life filled with social interaction to what he imagined could be a solitary routine.

“I interacted with new faces every day, so the thought of retiring and stopping all that initially worried me,” Rob admitted.

Two years ago, Rob and his wife became some of the first residents of Appleby Blue Almshouse, which aims to alleviate loneliness among people aged 65 and older.

“If I had known how wonderful it would be, I would have considered retiring sooner,” remarked Rob.

“There’s no reason for anyone to feel lonely. I’ve formed numerous friendships and continue to meet new people every day.

“Living here dispels the stereotype of merely sitting around, sipping tea, and gazing out the window.”

Almshouses have a history spanning over a millennium, created to offer refuge to those in need.

The Appleby Blue Almshouse in Bermondsey was inaugurated in July 2023 and received this year’s esteemed Stirling Prize from the Royal Institute of British Architects for being Britain’s best new structure.

It features 59 apartments for individuals over 65, alongside communal spaces such as a rooftop garden, courtyard, and community kitchen.

Nick Phillips, CEO of the Almshouse Association, noted that the “essence of almshouses traces back to the medieval era.”

“The almshouse model focuses on creating a welcoming, safe, and secure environment where you can connect with your neighbors.”

Mr. Phillips pointed out that contemporary architecture often lacks what he refers to as “bumping opportunities”—the chance encounters with other residents.

“At Appleby Blue, the layout naturally encourages interactions with your neighbors.

“In contrast, I’ve heard stories of people in newly built homes who can reach their front door without ever crossing paths with anyone.”

He further observed a decline in everyday social interactions, even in retail settings.

“Nowadays, when you enter a store, you might not encounter the shopkeeper at all—whereas previously, people would run into their neighbors there.”

Amy Brown, the resident support manager at Appleby Blue Almshouse, emphasized that such brief social exchanges could significantly impact older adults.

“A simple greeting on someone’s way to the shops can make all the difference, often surpassing the effectiveness of larger social gatherings.”

According to the Greater London Authority, roughly 700,000 London residents report feeling lonely most or all of the time.

This issue is more pronounced in London compared to the rest of England, particularly among disabled individuals and those with low incomes.

Mr. Phillips stated that while the number of individuals living alone is increasing, it is not a conscious choice.

“London is a prime example of people being scattered in search of work, with high housing costs forcing them away from their communities to find affordable options elsewhere.

“This fragmentation is separating families from the extended clan networks that once thrived.”

In the meantime, Rob shared his Christmas message for those who may be feeling isolated: “Get out there and connect with others.”

“Don’t isolate yourself at home; reach out and talk to someone, and try to enjoy life as much as you can.”