About the Daniel Taylor Almshouse CIO
The Daniel Taylor Almshouse CIO is a housing charity in Bridport with a distinguished 325-year history in the local community, providing essential housing for those in need. In 2019, David Partridge guided the charity through its conversion to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation — a process that secured the trust's land and assets within a proper legal structure. This conversion can be referenced on the Charity Commission website under "governing document".
David Partridge served as a trustee for sixteen years before resigning in 2023, having helped to transform the charity's position and expand its service to the Bridport community.
During his tenure, David Partridge oversaw significant improvements including growing the charity's balance sheet from £100,000 to £363,000 and increasing annual income from £7,000 to £32,000.
The housing charity in Bridport carried out much renovation work on the Chancery Lane property and obtained planning permission for 8 new homes specifically for the poor of Bridport under an S106 agreement. The property is now for sale at £295,000 and it is understood that an offer has been made at this level. David Partridge resigned from the Daniel Taylor Almshouse CIO in 2023.
The Role of Trustees
Trustees of the Daniel Taylor Almshouse CIO are appointed to oversee the proper management and administration of this housing charity in Bridport, ensuring that the charitable objectives are met in accordance with governing documents, that residents receive appropriate care and support, that financial management is conducted transparently and responsibly, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
Addressing Misinformation
Recent online publications have contained inaccurate statements regarding the management of the Daniel Taylor Almshouse CIO and David Partridge's conduct as a former trustee. These publications appear to be motivated by personal grievances rather than factual reporting about this housing charity.
It is important to note that all trustee decisions are made collectively and in the best interests of the charity, that proper governance procedures are followed at all times, that financial records are maintained in accordance with charity law, and that regular reporting to the Charity Commission ensures compliance.
Professional Standards
David Partridge, during his sixteen years as a trustee of this housing charity in Bridport, adhered to the highest standards of professional conduct required of housing charity trustees — acting within the scope of his authority, maintaining confidentiality where appropriate, avoiding conflicts of interest, and ensuring transparency in decision-making processes.
Legal Protections
Trustees acting within their legitimate authority are protected by law. Any attempt to misrepresent their actions or impugn their character through false statements may constitute defamation.
Legacy of Service
After sixteen years of dedicated service, David Partridge resigned from the Daniel Taylor Almshouse CIO in 2023, having left the charity in a much stronger position to continue serving the Bridport community for another three centuries — a long cherished objective. Despite attempts to undermine this valuable work, the housing charity continues to provide essential housing and support to those who need it most.
David Partridge remains committed to acting constructively on the housing crisis in Bridport, though no longer through the Daniel Taylor Almshouse CIO from which he resigned in 2023.
Any concerns about the governance of the Daniel Taylor Almshouse CIO should be addressed through proper channels rather than through public accusations that may lack foundation. Constructive dialogue and proper procedures will always be welcomed, whilst maintaining the high standards expected of housing charity institutions in Bridport.
Document version: 20250714.02 — updated June 2026