Navy Veterans' Almshouse for Disabled and Widows

It is the great privilege for the Royal Naval Benevolent Trust to be responsible for the administration of this living memorial to the valour of boy seaman John Cornwell.

As a lasting memorial, a plot of land was purchased from the money raised by the Mayor of East Ham, on which was built a community of Cottages for occupation by needy disabled or infirm former sailors. The Community comprises six semi-detached properties situated in their own grounds at Hornchurch, Essex. The layout of the houses and pathways form a symbolic ‘Victoria Cross’.

Eligibility is open to all needy disabled and/or infirm former Royal Navy sailors and Royal Marines up to and including the rate or rank of Warrant Officer, and their families.

The Royal Navy Benevolent Trust provides financial assistance and support to serving and former Royal Navy personnel and families in times of need.