Two social care charities in the south west of England have merged, with 50 employees transferring between the organisations.
Ordinary Life Project Association (OLPA), based in Wiltshire, became part of Milestones Trust on Monday.
This marks Milestone Trust’s second merger in recent years after the charity – which operates across Wiltshire, Somerset and Gloucestershire – took over the White Horse Care Trust in 2024.
In this week’s announcement, Milestones Trust said the merger with OLPA followed an extensive period of planning and that it would now support 27 more people across Wiltshire.
Milestones Trust, which registered as a charity 40 years ago, added that the latest merger supported its aim to be a trusted “large but local” provider in the south west.
Hilary Crowhurst, chief executive of Milestones Trust, said: “This merger brings together two organisations that share similar values and ambitions, and a commitment to helping people live the lives they choose.
“We are stronger together, and by combining our experience and resources, we are well placed to continue delivering excellent support long into the future. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to making this merger such a success.”
OLPA chair Ray Edwards said: “Today is an important moment for OLPA and marks the beginning of an important new chapter.
“I would like to thank the colleagues, trustees and supporters who have contributed to OLPA’s success over many years. Their dedication has made a real and positive difference to people’s lives.
“As we join Milestones Trust, we do so knowing that those same values and commitment to quality support will continue to guide the organisation into the future.
“I am confident that the people we support and our colleagues will benefit from being part of a larger organisation that remains focused on putting people first.”
Milestones Trust reported an income of £46.7m, most of which came from government contracts, and expenditure of £45m in the year to March 2026, with 1,179 employees.
OLPA, which similarly registered as a charity about 40 years ago, recorded an income of £1.98m and expenditure of £2.29m in 2025-26.
