St John of God Hospitaller Services Group (SJOG HSG) today confirms the transfer of Membership of St John of God Housing Association (SJOG HA) from the Hospitaller Order of St John of God of the Western European Province (SJOG Order) to SJOG HSG.

This transfer represents an important and deliberate milestone in the longstanding and carefully planned transition of the SJOG Order to pass ownership and responsibility for their works to a lay led organisation. It reflects the SJOG Orders’ continued commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability of services, underpinned by strong governance, transparency and adherence to the mission and values of St John of God.

SJOG HA will continue to operate as an Approved Housing Body, providing quality, secure and community-based housing to people with specific housing needs. The transfer does not alter the organisation’s purpose, autonomy or day-to-day operations. Its independent Board and governance structures remain in place; tenants and their families can be assured that services and supports will continue without disruption.

The transition forms part of a transformation process that has been under way for more than two decades, responding to the changing context of religious life, declining vocations and the SJOG Order’s clear intention to place its mission firmly in lay hands for the future.

Throughout this process, the relevant regulator and stakeholders have been engaged and informed. SJOG HA recently received an assessment from the Approved Housing Bodies Regulatory Authority (AHBRA) showing compliance on all standards, namely Governance, Financial Management, Property & Asset Management and Tenancy Management. The transfer of membership has also been subject to careful consideration by relevant Boards, management teams and external legal advisers.

SJOG HSG was established to carry forward the mission of Saint John of God in civil law, ensuring that services remain mission led, accountable and sustainable into the future. This transfer of housing membership is a tangible expression of that purpose and of the trust placed by the SJOG Brothers in the lay leadership of the organisation.

While the SJOG Brothers are stepping back from ownership, governance and decision-making roles, they remain deeply connected to the mission they founded and are confident that it is in good hands. Our values of compassion, hospitality and respect continue to guide all our services, across Ireland, the UK and Malawi.