The B&NES Carers’ Centre has launched an appeal this month to help them find the last £20,000 they need to buy their building on Lower Bristol Road.
The charity supports over 4,000 people a year in Bath and North East Somerset who all help to look after friends and family members who can’t manage on their own.
“This has always been about more than bricks and mortar,” said Chief Executive Sonia Hutchison.
“It’s about securing a place for carers in our community. Buying a building in Bath means we are raising our game and turning the dream of a permanent long-term base into a reality.”
The appeal is a final bid after 18 months of fundraising to purchase the building.
The charity is looking to raise as much as they can over the next six weeks to cover the final costs, setting an initial target of £20,000.
Carer Kelly says how much she’s appreciated having a safe space to go where people understand her situation.
“The Bath Carers Centre makes a really big difference to me. I get time out from my caring role and make new friends. It helps me cope,’ said Kelly, who has cared for her sister since she was five and now looks after her mother as well.
The listed Georgian building is the second base for the Carers’ Centre, which also has premises in Radstock.
Its flexible spaces, garden and car park enable the charity to offer access to a wide range of activities and breaks for carers.
Senior Development Manager Janine Woodward-Grant said that a place for carers is part of the charity’s long term mission.
“Carers give up their time and energy to look after friends and family who can’t manage on their own. This can be tiring, stressful and lonely.
“We believe that no one should care alone. We want a future where every carer can find a place of support here with us.”
In return for donations, anyone who gives will have their name included on a ‘mural of thanks’ that will be displayed somewhere in the Bath premises.
To donate, visit: http://campaign.justgiving.com/charity/banescarerscentre/woodlands.
