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Our story: By carers, for carers

Carers First was established in Tonbridge in 1991, by carers who wanted to help others in a similar situation. Today, Carers First works with thousands of unpaid carers, providing practical information and support; making it easier for them to continue living their lives to the fullest.

We also actively work with other organisations to offer direct support to carers and to provide an opportunity for carers to help shape national conversations and influence policy change.

1991

Carers First founded

1996

Carers First became a registered charity.

2006

The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, visited to commemorate Carers First’s tenth anniversary

2008

Awarded first Carer Support Service contracts by Kent County Council and Medway Council.

2013

Supporting over 5,000 carers in South West Kent, North West Kent and Medway. Medway Carers Centre merges with Carers First. Re-awarded contracts in Kent and Medway.

2016

Awarded Carer Support Service contracts for Lincolnshire and Waltham Forest. Merged with Crossroads Care Medway and marked Carers First’s Silver Jubilee year

2018

Awarded Carer Support Service contracts for Essex and Haringey.

2019

Awarded Carer Support Service contracts for Newham and Hackney. Re-awarded Carer Support Service contract for Medway

2021

Re-awarded Carer Support Service contract for Waltham Forest. Awarded Carer Support Service contract for Southend-on-Sea. Supporting over 15,000 carers every year across eight areas of the South East, London, East Midlands and East of England.

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