A Cumbrian care home provider has taken a bold step into the future by becoming employee-owned.
HomeTrust Care Limited, which operates three care homes, including the Nether Place Care Centre on Chestnut Hill in Keswick, has been successfully transferred into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), handing control of the business to the people who have built its reputation for exceptional care through a trust.
Founded by Alyson Joyce in 2003, HomeTrust Care has grown to include not only the Nether Place Care Centre but The Carlisle Dementia Centre and Silver Howe Care Centre in Kendal, employing 100 staff across the three locations.
Alyson said the transition to employee ownership reflects a deep commitment to protecting the values that have shaped the business for over two decades, and to ensuring a sustainable, people-first future.
“When planning for the future of HomeTrust Care, my priority was always to protect our staff, our residents, and the ethos we’ve worked so hard to build,” she said.
“Moving to employee ownership felt like a natural extension of everything we stand for, care, commitment and community. It’s the people inside our homes who make us who we are, and I’m proud to be handing over the business to such a dedicated team.
“This transition not only safeguards long-term job security for staff and continuity of care for residents, but also gives employees a meaningful stake in the company’s future success. The business will continue to be guided by its experienced and committed senior leadership team, ensuring stability and a seamless continuation of care.”
The transition was supported by Azets Corporate Finance and legal teams from Weightmans and MCM.
Graham Cunning, corporate finance partner at Azets, said: “Helping Alyson and her family transition HomeTrust Care into employee ownership has been a privilege.
This move safeguards the legacy of the founders while empowering the team that has made the company such a success. It’s a model that rewards commitment and secures the business for the long term.”
HomeTrust Care remains the registered provider of services with CQC and now joins a growing movement of purpose-driven businesses across the UK embracing employee ownership as a way to future-proof their impact, culture, and contribution to local communities.
