Winning streak for Devon health and wellbeing charity Westbank

Exminster-based charity Westbank Community Health and Care is celebrating a wave of recognition for its outstanding contributions to community health and wellbeing across Devon, marking 2025 as a landmark year of achievement.

The organisation, which has been delivering vital support services for over three decades, has been named Community Champion at the Devon Chamber Business Awards 2025, a major accolade recognising the charity’s transformative work across the region.

Accepting the award at a ceremony held at Plymouth’s Crowne Plaza, Chris Bloye, Westbank’s Head of Business Services and Operations, praised the entire team for their commitment and passion.

“It’s a privilege to have received this award on behalf of the whole team at Westbank, and we couldn’t be more proud to have been recognised as Devon Chamber’s ‘Community Champion’ for our work to support individuals and communities across Devon," said Chris.

“I’m sure I speak on behalf of all my colleagues when I say that contributing to an organisation that makes a difference to the health and wellbeing of people of all ages and backgrounds within the community gives a real meaning and purpose to work life.

“Thank you to Devon Chamber of Commerce for this wonderful opportunity to showcase the impact Westbank has in the community, as we strive to support even more people to lead healthier, happier, more fulfilled lives and maintain their independence for as long as possible.”

The Community Champion award is the latest in a string of accolades for Westbank. Earlier this spring, the charity was Highly Commended in the Community Group/Charity category at the Exeter Sustainability Awards, and has just been shortlisted as Employer of the Year in the Care and Support West Awards.

Adding to the celebrations, Westbank CEO Sarah Hicks has been nationally recognised in the 2025 WISE100 list, which highlights the most inspiring and influential women in the UK working in social enterprise and mission-driven business.

“It’s been a fantastic start to 2025 for Westbank Community Health and Care,” said Sarah. “This kind of recognition is a real morale boost for everyone connected with the charity and helps us raise awareness of our many initiatives to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities across Devon and our focus on preventative healthcare.

“I’m immensely proud of my team for embracing the changes put in place over the last few years to drive sustainability and expand the reach and impact of Devon’s foremost health and wellbeing charity.”

Founded in the early 1990s, Westbank has become a cornerstone of community care in Devon. The charity runs a wide array of services from supporting older adults to live independently at home, to running wellbeing hubs, volunteer services, and health education programmes for all ages.

At its heart, Westbank is focused on preventative health, striving to reduce pressure on NHS services by supporting individuals before health problems escalate. Its holistic, community-first approach has earned it a reputation as one of Devon’s leading charities, deeply embedded in the lives of the people it serves.

With this recent string of honours and a growing spotlight on the charity’s impact, Westbank is well-positioned to continue expanding its reach and influence across the South West in the years ahead.