“When Help & Care began as a short-term project in Bournemouth in 1985, I was the sole worker. Over 30 years later, we employ 120 people and operate a range of support services in communities across southern England. Our vision has always been to empower communities and promote dignity and independence, helping all people to live their best lives no matter what disadvantages or obstacles they may face.

“We primarily support adults who are living with long-term conditions or nearing end of life, and those who care for them. We believe that every individual deserves to be treated with respect and to have their voices heard. Our work is person-centred, responding to what the individual identifies as important for them to improve their quality of life. In this way, our services are varied, reactive, and can range from making home adjustments for independent living to offering non-clinical support for managing health conditions.

“As we’ve grown, there have been periods of rapid expansion and we’ve taken out two loans with Charity Bank to help us invest in our changing infrastructure. The loans have been absolutely crucial in enabling us to grow and continue doing great things for people. They have allowed us to become a sustainable business, which has in turn offered the stability needed to maintain and expand our services.

“The primary reason we chose to work with Charity Bank was because of its social values. As a charity, we’re really keen to make sure we trade with people who share our ethos of doing good. This shared philosophy also shows in the way Charity Bank has interacted with us over the years. At annual reviews, they don’t simply ask about the balance sheet and the bottom line but are always more interested in what it is we’re doing for people and the impact we’re having.

“The existence of ethical banks like Charity Bank is important for the development of a long-term social economy. While traditional ways of giving to charity through individual fundraising are incredibly valuable, charities also need reliable and accessible financial support that goes beyond this. People who invest or save with Charity Bank are contributing to a sustainable and ongoing impact that will really help change lives.

“I would encourage people to think about the opportunity that ethical banks offer to have a long-lasting and meaningful impact on communities. When saving or investing with Charity Bank, you not only get a return for yourself and your loved ones but also for the wider community.”

Help & Care is just one of 38 Follow the Money visits. Explore further Follow the Money visits and see how Charity Bank savers' money is used for good.

See the Follow the Money visit – Swindon Therapy Centre For MS.

About Charity Bank

Charity Bank is the loans and savings bank owned by and committed to supporting the social sector. Since 2002, we have used our savers’ money to make more than 1000 loans totalling over £350m to housing, education, social care, community and other social purpose organisations.

Find out more about us here.

Nothing in this article constitutes an invitation to engage in investment activity nor is it advice or a recommendation and professional advice should be taken before any course of action is pursued.

Last reviewed: 04/01/2022