Support for unpaid carers in Devon will continue as Devon County Council introduces new arrangements from 1 October 2026.
Devon County Council has announced changes to the way some carers’ services will be delivered from 1 October 2026.
Unpaid carers make a vital contribution across Devon, supporting family members, friends and neighbours who could not otherwise manage without their help.
The council supports around 35,000 carers, although the total number of people in caring roles across Devon is likely to be significantly higher.
The current Caring Well in Devon contract, delivered by Westbank Health and Care on behalf of Devon County Council, will come to an end on 30 September 2026.
From 1 October 2026, carers’ assessments, reviews and the Carers Helpline will move into Devon County Council under the new arrangements.
Support for unpaid carers will continue beyond 30 September 2026, with new arrangements being introduced to ensure carers continue to receive the advice, information and support they need.
Experienced staff who currently deliver carers’ assessments, reviews and helpline support are expected to transfer to the Council, helping ensure valuable skills, expertise and relationships are retained within the service.
Bringing these services into the council will strengthen links with Adult Social Care services and make it easier for carers to access support.
The council says that it recognises that carers need more than assessments and reviews alone.
Under the new arrangement, peer support, wellbeing services and opportunities to connect with other carers will play an important role in supporting carers across Devon, with peer support services and carer ambassador services being recommissioned with new contracts expected to start from 1 October 2026.
Existing providers, including Westbank Health and Care, have been invited to bid.
The council is also working with voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations to develop a new Carer Wellbeing Alliance, bringing together local organisations to provide community-based support, information, advice and wellbeing opportunities closer to home.
Arrangements with Citizens Advice to support unpaid carers will continue as normal.
The council is in the process of contacting carers to inform them of the new arrangements, but is reliant on Westbank Health and Care confidentially sharing carers’ contact details with them.
If you are an unpaid carer, supported by Westbank Health and Care under the Council’s contract, and have not already been contacted by the Council, please email our Carers Strategy mailbox at carersstrategy-mailbox@devon.gov.uk with your name and contact details. We will ensure that you receive the information you need.
You can read more about the new arrangement for carers online. Update on carers’ support services in Devon

Discount supermarket wants to check out views on possible store
South West Water announces temporary restrictions for hosepipe use across the region
Don’t miss chance to help shape plans to improve air quality in Exeter
Emergency meeting plea as friction emerges over massive task of redrawing Devon’s political boundaries
Residents invited to share views on staying active in Exeter
Faster testing, financial support and better communication among Devon’s bluetongue demands
South West Water encourages households to check for hidden toilet leaks
Report of alleged serious assault being investigated in Exeter
Closure order granted for Exeter property linked to crime and anti-social behaviour
Royal Clarence Hotel developers to scale back on affordable housing
Dangerous cycle path set-up creating arguments between drivers and riders
Police appeal for information for wanted Exeter Man
Parking ticket row erupts over signage quarrel
Commissioner welcomes steps taken to meet summer policing challenge
E-fit released of man after disorder in Exmouth
Fires in Teignmouth
