Community-centred care isn’t just possible—it’s the future
It has been a remarkable first 12 months since BS3 Community Care launched its innovative, community-focused approach to care and support in Bristol. The mission was simple: to provide better, more local, and more affordable care and support for residents of the greater BS3 area —and the results speak for themselves.
Why is BS3 Community Care different from other providers?
This not-for-profit social enterprise model ensures that the fees paid by clients go directly back into the community, with only a small portion covering operational costs. Unlike larger, commercial profit-driven care agencies, BS3 Community reinvests in local resources. This ensures that support strengthens the community rather than shareholders, whilst also building the local economy through the creation of rewarding job opportunities for self-employed professionals.
BS3 Community believes in giving both clients and care providers the autonomy to choose how they work. This approach guarantees genuine choice and control over schedules, care routines, and providers, putting dignity and independence at the heart of the service.
Trust and safety are top priorities. Every care provider who joins our community undergoes a thorough vetting process to ensure high standards of safety and quality, so clients can be confident in those supporting them or their loved ones.
Supporting the Community
Beyond matching clients with providers, BS3 Community can offer advice and support on many challenges – including helping individuals navigate health, social, and practical issues, as well as connecting people with other community activities and offerings. from Monday to Friday. Working with trusted partners, the organisation can signpost to free or discounted training and runs peer support groups for care providers, boosting local employment opportunities and professional development.
This new model of care and support delivery supports both residents and the local economy, embedding resilience, improving quality of life, and strengthening connections within the South Bristol community.
A Local Success Story: Syl’s Journey
Syl, a retired head warden at an SEN school, of more than 45 years, became a care provider after her previous employer closed. Her story exemplifies BS3’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for local residents to contribute and thrive. Supporting individuals like Syl helps build a caring workforce rooted in local knowledge and community engagement.
A Sustainable Future for Local Care
BS3 Community’s approach addresses urgent challenges in the national care sector—such as rising demand, staffing shortages, and inconsistent standards—by creating trusted relationships based on local insight. The growth seen in the first 12 months demonstrates how investing in local care professionals supports healthier, more connected communities.
This model saves money, raises care standards, and keeps resources where they belong: with residents and their communities. It proves that community-centred care and support isn’t just possible—it’s the future.
