Membership and membership benefits During 2012/13 we welcomed 300 new homecare provider branches into membership resulting in a membership base of 2,107 providers, representing around 1 in 3 of all independent and voluntary sector homecare providers across the UK.
“Very helpful – I love belonging to the UKHCA!” We estimate that our member organisations employ over 154,000 homecare workers, who deliver over 2 million hours of care per week for around 167,000 service users, valued at £1.6 billion per annum. New members continue to come from a variety of different providers – from newly formed, single branch independent providers just setting up - to new branches being added to existing member organisations. As such UKHCA’s membership continues to represent the full spectrum of independent, voluntary and statutory homecare providers both large and small - across the entire UK.
“We find your magazine such an interesting read, each edition we find packed with useful information. It is one of a handful of magazines I manage to read front to back and cascade the magazine to each of our managers.” New membership benefits introduced during the past 12 months include a
23 UKHCA Impact Statement 2013-14
group buying scheme, which, recognising the difficult economic environment homecare providers are operating in, offers members access to significant savings on high usage consumable products. In June 2012 we introduced Towergate Patrick as our new preferred insurance provider following a rigorous tender process, during which they demonstrated a real understanding and commitment to the care market. In addition to an enhanced insurance package, UKHCA members benefit from a 10% discount on the non-members’ rate from Towergate. Over the next 12 months we are committed to increasing growth in our membership, as we continue to represent the interests of the sector to Government, service commissioners, regulators, the media and the wider community of stakeholders.
“Thank you for your advice - it was spot on. At times like this I am glad I have our membership, I think I should use you more!” As part of this plan for growth we will seek further membership benefits which can help our members improve their business performance, deliver savings and improve service to clients. In our commercial membership category we have maintained our position from the previous year and will continue to develop this category both in terms of the number of members and the opportunities for involvement in projects supporting provider members.