The Carers’ Centre for Bath & North East Somerset has secured a new seven-year contract to continue supporting thousands of unpaid adult and young carers – a major milestone that comes as the charity celebrates its 30th birthday.
Photo © B&NES Carers’ Centre
Founded in 1996 to support anyone looking after a loved one who relies on their help, The Carers’ Centre now runs a support line and wellbeing services for more than 6,200 adult carers and 1,000 young carers.
Over three decades, it has expanded its offer, earned the nationally accredited ‘Excellence for Carers’ award and attracted funding from major funders including Henry Smith and Children in Need.
The new contract with Bath & North East Somerset Council secures long-term funding for its core Carers and Family Support Service, meaning hundreds more carers will be able to access help.
This will include a forthcoming AI tool on the charity’s website to signpost users to tailored advice and guidance alongside the existing support line.
Jacqui Orchard, the charity’s chief executive, said: “We are delighted to have won this new contract with our key partner, Bath & North East Somerset Council.
“Being able to continue our core service provision for our community of carers means everything to us.
“We can also now continue to extend our reach, as we know there are thousands more carers out there in need of our support, many of whom do not see themselves as carers and may be navigating the challenges in silence.’
Councillor Alison Born, cabinet member for adult services at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “All carers should be recognised, valued and supported to live good lives.
“The Carers and Family Support Service provision is crucial in supporting unpaid carers, both young and adult, by ensuring they get timely help, access to the relevant support, and allowing them to maintain a life outside of caring.
“We look forward to continuing our partnership work with The Carers’ Centre and seeing the impact this invaluable service has on even more carers across B&NES.”
Alongside the council contract, the charity is continuing to fundraise to support extra wellbeing activities for carers. It plans to enter a team in the Bath Half in 2026 and is also seeking volunteers and trustees.
People interested in getting involved or joining the carers’ community can find out more at banescarerscentre.org.uk, where details of the centre’s 30th birthday celebrations will be shared later in the year.
