2026 is a very special year for Westbank Community Health and Care because it marks our charity’s milestone 40th anniversary. We launched our celebrations in January when our founder, Mary Nisbett, returned to our Healthy Living Centre in Exminster to cut the ribbon on a colourful timeline commemorating 40 years of supporting the community and celebrating Westbank’s many achievements and awards over the past four decades.

It was an absolute pleasure to welcome Mary back to see how the charity has grown and developed since she departed some years ago. Mary set up what was originally called Westbank League of Friends from her kitchen table in Kenton after health officials alerted her to the need for greater support in the communities of Exminster, Starcross, and Kenton to fill the gaps in statutory health and social care provision. Westbank started with a small clutch of trustees and volunteers and is now supported by hundreds of people who generously give their time and experience to support our dedicated staff. 

We have a full calendar of events planned throughout the coming year to celebrate our big 4-0 with our staff, volunteers, service beneficiaries and partner organisations. We also want to seize the opportunity to make as many people as possible aware of us and the remarkably broad range of services we provide across Devon to help people lead more fulfilled, happier, healthier lives and maintain their independence for as long as they can.

 I’m incredibly proud to be CEO of this incredible organisation as we dive into a year of special events and celebrations with a 40th theme. During my time at the helm, we have continued to expand our services; last year we directly supported 38,000 people across the county, providing practical help, learning opportunities and preventative healthcare to even more individuals and families, and positively impacting countless lives.

A highlight was the launch of our five-year Strategic Plan, which built upon our refreshed Vision, Mission, Values and Behaviours. These are displayed throughout our Healthy Living Centre to remind everyone who works here, volunteers for us or uses our services of our guiding principles.

As we dive headlong into 2026, we will begin sharing 40 personal stories to showcase the difference Westbank has made to families and their communities the length and breadth of the county.

To find out more about all our anniversary plans, and how you can become involved, please visit: www.westbank.org.uk/40th-anniversary

This article was first published in The Moorlander.