Our role goes beyond the support we provide to individuals. We work alongside communities to understand local needs, build on their strengths and develop the relationships, skills and connections that enable people to support one another.

By bringing together residents, volunteers, community groups, voluntary organisations and public services, we help strengthen local networks and create opportunities for communities to shape the support they need. This helps build more connected and resilient communities, where people can access support earlier and problems are less likely to reach crisis point.

Care Network Cambridgeshire (CNC) was founded in the 1970s by Sheila Stephenson, who recognised the importance of community-based support for our local people. What began as a volunteer-led initiative helping residents access essential services such as getting people to and from medical appointments or shops, to establishing interest groups and social activities, we grew into a registered charity in 1986. Today, Care Network supports adults across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough through our dedicated team of staff and volunteers, helping people improve their health, wellbeing, confidence and independence.

The passion and commitment of our team, combined with an army of dedicated local volunteers, means that we are truly embedded within communities across the districts of the county. We will proudly continue to work in this manner as it has repeatedly proven to be the most effective way to help and support local people. We are aware that for many, a lot of uncertainty lies around the future of access to health and social care services and we are committed to try and fill these gaps, supporting people along every step of their own personal journey.

Guided by a person-centred approach, our charity continues to successfully work to combat loneliness, support mental health, reduce hospital admissions, and ensure individuals remain connected to their communities, putting people at the heart of everything we do.

In 2026, Care Network proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of supporting local people across the county. This significant milestone will be commemorated through a 40 Year Anniversary community event taking place in Girton, Cambridgeshire in October. The event will bring together our clients, volunteers, partners, trustees and supporters to reflect on our charity’s impact and look ahead to the future. Our vision remains to create a community where every individual feels connected, independent, supported and guided through challenging times.