Lench's Trust is a remarkable and positive symbol of continuity in a city of seemingly perpetual transformation. In 1525 in Tudor Birmingham, the wealthy and childless William Lenche decided that the income from his estates should be distributed in "warke of charyte". Since then, generations of Trustees and officials have carried out his wishes diligently, faithfully, and thoughtfully. Originally acting as an important aspect of local government through repairing roads and bridges, they gradually became more active in the provision of almshouses for those in need, and now Lench's Trust provides a host of later living services for people living in Birmingham. Five hundred years on and having successfully adapted to changing needs, Lench's Trust continues its valuable charitable work in Birmingham.