Caring in Devon

Age UK Devon awarded two new contracts to support carers across Devon

Age UK Devon is delighted to announce that we have been awarded two new contracts by Devon County Council to deliver the Carer Peer Support Service and Carer Ambassador Service from 1 November 2026.

The services will support adult carers aged 18 and over across Devon, providing opportunities to connect with others who understand the realities of caring, access peer support, share experiences and ensure carers' voices are heard in the development of local services.

Caring for a family member, partner, friend or neighbour can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging and isolating.  Having the opportunity to meet others in similar situations, share experiences and access support can make a significant difference to a carer's wellbeing and resilience.

Building on strong foundations

As we prepare to take on the services, our priority is to work closely with Devon County Council, Westbank and the staff currently delivering the contracts to ensure a smooth transition for carers, volunteers and partners.

We recognise the valuable work that is already taking place across Devon and are committed to building on the relationships, knowledge and experience that have helped these services develop.  Over the coming months, our team will be visiting existing peer support groups and meeting carers, volunteers and Carer Ambassadors to understand what matters most to them and how we can continue to strengthen support across the county.

Supporting carers aged 18 and over

Adult carers are not a single group. People's caring responsibilities and life circumstances vary enormously, and the support they need will often look different too.

Through these services, we will work to ensure opportunities are accessible and relevant for carers at every stage of adulthood, including younger adult carers, those balancing caring responsibilities with employment, parents and family life, and older carers supporting loved ones later in life.

Alongside established peer support groups, we will explore flexible ways for carers to connect and engage, recognising that many carers may be unable to attend traditional daytime activities due to work, study or caring commitments.  We are also committed to reaching carers who may not currently access support, including people living in rural communities and those from diverse backgrounds.

Giving carers a stronger voice

The Carer Peer Support Service will focus on bringing carers together through support groups, wellbeing opportunities and shared learning. The Carer Ambassador Service will enable carers to represent the views and experiences of carers across Devon, helping organisations to better understand carers' needs and shape future services.

Everything we do will be guided by the experiences of carers themselves. We believe carers are experts through lived experience, and their insight will be central to the development of both services.

Sophie Littlewood, Chief Executive of Age UK Devon, said:

"We are delighted to have been awarded these contracts and look forward to working with carers, volunteers, Carer Ambassadors and partners across Devon. Our focus will be on listening, learning and building on the excellent work that is already taking place.  We want carers to feel connected, valued and heard, and to have opportunities to influence the services that affect their lives.

We also recognise that the experiences of adult carers can vary greatly depending on their age, circumstances and responsibilities.  By working closely with carers across Devon, we hope to create flexible and inclusive opportunities that meet people where they are and reflect the realities of modern caring.

The contracts commence on 1 November 2026.  Further information about the services and opportunities to get involved will be shared over the coming weeks.

Find out more

For enquiries about the Carer Peer Support Service, please contact Jack Phillips, Ageing Well Manager, at j.phillips@ageukdevon.org.uk.

For enquiries about the Carer Ambassador Service, please contact Sarah Gunn, Advice & Wellbeing Manager, at s.gunn@ageukdevon.org.uk.

Alternatively, call 0333 241 2340.