Ripon House Approved Premises for Women

Like the Probation Service itself, Ripon House owes its origins to the 19th century National Police Court Mission, an offshoot of the Church of England Temperance Society.

In 1932 the Diocese of Ripon opened the first of its two hostels, Cardigan House, as a Boys Hostel.

1946 Ripon House opened as a Girls Hostel, and in 1972 changed to a Mixed Hostel.

1976 The Home Office took over the day-to-day running costs of both of the Ripon Diocesan Hosels, but the Trustees of the Diocesan Council for Social Aid, as owners, remained responsible for the buildings.

1995 Refurbishment took place to provide more privacy for the women in the hostel, including the provision of a seperate women's lounge.

1999 In the National League Table for that year Ripon House came 10th out of 101 in the country for occupancy / success rates.

June 2006 Ripon House became a women-only hostel, only one of 7 in England and Wales.

September 2006 Ripon House celebrated its 60th anniversary with a Rededication Ceremony led by Bishop John Packer and attended by Dr Ingrid Roscoe, Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire.

August 2007 Ripon House was assessed as being the highest performing Approved Premises in West Yorkshire and the highest performing female hostel in the country following a national audit.