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Care Anchor Kent CIC

Providing a local sanctuary in Folkestone and a digital lifeline across Kent. Because those who care for others deserve to be cared for too.

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About Us

Care Anchor Kent CIC supports unpaid and professional carers through compassionate peer support, advocacy and practical guidance — while working with partners to improve care systems and safeguarding across communities.

For carers

Support, peer connection and advocacy for people caring for others.

For partners & funders

Projects, impact and opportunities to collaborate.

We focus on 3 pillars.

What we do

Wellbeing & Peer Support

The Hub: Your Physical & Emotional Sanctuary

At Care Anchor, we believe that those who spend their lives looking after others deserve to be looked after too. Our Folkestone Hub serves as the flagship sanctuary—a place to step out of your role as a carer and simply be yourself.

 

​Wellness at the Hub: Our physical space is home to restorative workshops designed to help you recharge. Whether it’s finding joy through music and creative expression or finding peace in guided relaxation, the Hub is where you come to fill your cup back up.


Compassionate Peer Support: The Hub is where our community connects. Led by carers who "get it," our peer-led groups provide a safe, non-judgmental space to share your journey and find strength in others.


​The "Anchor" Coffee Meets: Beyond our Hub walls, we drop anchor in local coffee shops across Folkestone, Dover, Deal, Ashford, and Canterbury. These meets offer a chance to connect on your local high street, supported by businesses that provide exclusive discounts to our members.

Advocacy & Olivia’s Way

Safety Through Compassion.

 

In memory of Olivia Martin, we are dedicated to ensuring that no one is ever "unwitnessed" or unheard in the care system. This pillar is about standing in the gap to ensure transparency and safety for all.


Care Advocacy: We act as your 'Care Navigators,' standing beside you to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are respected during assessments and care planning.


Olivia’s Way Workshops (In development - pilot opportunities available): We are currently developing a series of compassionate workshops for care managers and staff. These sessions move away from "standard training" to focus on building a culture of heart, vigilance, and accountability in the care sector.

Digital Connection & Resources

A Lifeline in Your Pocket

 

Through our partnership with Carers Card UK, we provide a digital safety net that follows you wherever you go. This isn't just about information; it’s about practical, everyday relief.

 

Verified Carer ID: Professional recognition of your role, instantly accessible on your phone.

 

Emergency Planning: Digital tools to ensure your loved one is safe, even if the unexpected happens to you. The "Anchor"

 

Discount Network: We are proud to offer exclusive local discounts to help your budget go further. Our network is currently active in Folkestone, Dover, Deal, Ashford, and Canterbury, with new partners joining us every month as we grow across the whole of Kent.

Hear It From Our Members

"I highly recommend Care Anchor Kent to anyone looking to support a cause that truly makes a difference.  Their ongoing commitment to improving lives and providing care for carers is inspiring. I am truly grateful for all the work they do in the community."

- Dellanie

"In the beginning, I struggled to attend Care Anchor, feeling out of place. But Carmella made me feel so welcome, encouraging me to stay while assuring me I could leave anytime. It took time to find my voice, but I couldn’t have done it without her support and the amazing Care Anchor team and members."

- Lisa

"Myself and my daughter whom is now disabled found care anchor last year. We are made to feel so welcome, and have found a great community.  I have found the card useful locally as well."

- Janet

By facilitating 1,900 Carers Cards across Kent, we have created a verifiable map of the care community and secured 1,900 digital emergency plans to significantly reduce the risk of unwitnessed crisis situations
Over 1,500 hours of peer-to-peer connection shared over a coffee since Nov  2024
Every £1 invested in community-led peer support generates an estimated £5.18 in social value by improving carer wellbeing and reducing the demand on local emergency services
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Care Anchor Kent

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CIC no:  16075623

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