The development of Sunderland Home Care Associates is a unique story. Dating back to 1976 with the formation of the Little Women co-operative, the organisation has always had its roots in the not-for-profit sector.

In 1994, the new business started trading and is now owned by over 300 care workers from the local area, delivering the highest of professional standards.

Our unique structure means that staff members have the opportunity to take part in democratic general meetings and help set our budgets, pay and conditions meaning profits are spent on providing a better service or towards rewarding our staff.

Sunderland Home Care Associates strongly believes that well trained staff become more confident and are able to offer a better quality service. All staff undergo extensive training to ensure our clients receive the best care possible.

The staff’s achievements at Sunderland Home Care Associates have caught the eye of many regional and national decision-makers and Margaret Elliott, the founder of the company, was awarded an OBE in the 2008 New Year Honours List. Presentations have been made to the House of Commons and other national social enterprise organisations who want to see care delivered by a social enterprise in their area.

In 2004, Sunderland Home Care Associates scooped the Best Participation and Best of the Best awards from the North East Social Enterprise Partnership (NESEP). In 2006, SHCA was the overall winner of the prestigious Enterprising Solutions Award organised by the Social Enterprise Coalition. This success is down to strong team-working, high standards and great commitment from the staff.