HomeTrust Care Limited, which operates three care homes across Cumbria, has been 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.
Graham Cunning and George Roberts, corporate finance and tax partners respectively in the Glasgow office of Azets, advised on the transfer to employee ownership.
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
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.”
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.
Ms 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.”
- HomeTrust Care Limited now operates under an Employee Ownership Trust
- The company employs 100staff across its three homes.
- Legal and financial advice was provided by:
- Azets Corporate Finance – Graham Cunning & Christine Rankin
- Azets Tax – George Roberts & Clementine Crawford
- Weightmans LLP – Claire McKracken and team
- MCM (EOT legal advisor) – Colm Kerr
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