Hometrust Care Enters New Era As Employees Take Ownership Of Leading Cumbrian Care Group

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 across the region, has been successfully transferred into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), handing control of the business to the very people who have built its reputation for exceptional care through a trust.

Founded by Alyson Joyce in 2003, HomeTrust Care has grown to include The Carlisle Dementia Centre (Carlisle), Nether Place Care Centre (Keswick), and Silver Howe Care Centre (Kendal), employing 100 staff across the three locations. The homes are known for their compassionate, person-centred care, including dementia support, specialist nursing, respite, and complex care services.

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.

Founder Alyson Joyce said:
“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. 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, ensuring a smooth and values-aligned shift to employee ownership.

Graham Cunning, Corporate Finance Partner at Azets, added:
“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.”