A Landmark Year for Social Care in Herefordshire
The year 2026 marks a remarkable milestone for Services for Independent Living (SIL) as we celebrate 30 years of delivering high‑quality social care and support across Herefordshire. What began as a small but determined movement in 1996 has grown into one of the county’s most respected user‑led organisations.
Our Roots: Empowering Service Users From the Start
SIL’s story began when a loaf of bread cost 54p and petrol was just 52p a litre. Back then, a group of disabled people came together to challenge the status quo and campaign for the right to receive a direct payment—a groundbreaking step that allowed individuals to manage their own care.
At the time, Herefordshire Council didn’t yet exist. Social services were overseen by Hereford & Worcester County Council, which agreed to support this new approach. From this, the Hereford Centre for Independent Living was formed, evolving into the SIL we know today.
Growing Into a Leading Social Care Provider
Over three decades, SIL has grown from a grassroots initiative into an award‑winning not‑for‑profit organisation. Today, we employ around 150 dedicated staff and support approximately 400 people across the county.
Our services now include:
- Support for people receiving direct payments or personal health budgets
- Independent Living at Home services for individuals with complex needs
- A homecare service providing domiciliary care to older and vulnerable people in North Herefordshire
Despite our growth, our vision remains unchanged: Independent Living for All
Staying True to Our Values as a User‑Led Charity
What makes SIL unique in the care sector is our unwavering commitment to being user‑led. We are a registered charity, and we do not seek to make a profit or pay dividends. Our trustees are volunteers, and any surplus is reinvested directly into improving our services.
Two years ago, we launched a charitable fund that allows service users to apply for small grants—support that often makes a big difference to daily life. This fund is also open to small local charities supporting vulnerable people in Herefordshire.
Navigating Change in the Social Care Landscape
The social care sector has transformed dramatically over the past 30 years. Rising demand, increasing costs, and ongoing political challenges have placed pressure on providers and local authorities alike. While many of these issues remain unresolved, there is hope on the horizon.
The rapid development of AI and assistive technology is opening new possibilities for improving efficiency, enhancing independence, and freeing up valuable time for frontline staff. These innovations have the potential to reshape the future of care in meaningful ways.
Putting Service Users and Staff at the Heart of What We Do
At SIL, our commitment to our service users remains at the core of every decision we make. Equally, we recognise that our staff are the backbone of our organisation. Their dedication, compassion, and professionalism are what enable us to deliver exceptional care every day.
We continue to foster a culture of respect, support, and equality—values that have guided us since the very beginning.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter of SIL’s Journey
Reaching our 30th anniversary is more than a celebration—it’s a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and to look ahead with optimism. We remain passionate about bringing smiles to the people we support and committed to being both the provider of choice and the employer of choice in Herefordshire.
As we step into 2026, we do so with confidence, experience, and a renewed sense of purpose. The next chapter of our story is just beginning, and we’re excited to continue shaping the future of social care together.
Events to celebrate this anniversary will be listed on our Calendar
