Woodleigh Healthcare, a specialist personal-centred care organisation supporting vulnerable individuals, has secured £150,000 in funding from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II (MEIF II) and Regional Growth Fund with support from First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans and Lendoe to drive growth and ensure the continued delivery of high-quality care.
Providing care for adults and children with learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, challenging behaviours, and the elderly, Woodleigh Healthcare stands out in the market due to its expertise in managing high-dependency cases and its trauma-sensitive approach.
Established in 2014, the company serves communities in Leicestershire and Surrey with a diverse range of services, including supported living, home care, live-in care, complex care, and residential and day care.
Woodleigh Healthcare’s commitment to fostering independence and well-being for individuals, especially during transitions from hospitals or distressed environments, has made it a trusted partner for commissioners, local authorities, and the NHS. It also supports the community through its charity, Woodleigh Community Lifeline, assisting women and children affected by domestic abuse.
The funding will provide vital support for expansion initiatives and cashflow, helping the company maintain its skilled workforce as it continues to grow. Expansion in 2025 will involve opening a third site in Nottinghamshire as well as new supported living and residential services in Leicester and Surrey.
Woodleigh is led by Managing Director Bernadette Charehwa who has over 20 years of expertise in Health and Social Care.
Bernadette Charehwa, Managing Director, comments: “I truly appreciated our Investment Manager, Shaun, taking the time to meet us in person and understand our care model. Being able to discuss industry challenges and their impact on our services was an eye-opening experience. The loan is allowing us to continue delivering essential care and begin our expansion plans.”
Irvine Madimu, Finance and Operations Director, comments: “This loan connected us with a funding partner who truly understands our business and supports our vision for growth. Lendoe played a key role in introducing us to First Enterprise, and their support has been invaluable. Since 2018, Lendoe has helped us access the right funding solutions, and we are grateful to First Enterprise for providing the financial backing that allows us to continue making a difference in our community.”
Ndaba Mnkandla, Quality Assurance and Compliance Director: “The funding enabled us to grow strategically and strengthen our operational model. Having a partner who truly understands our approach made a significant difference, allowing us to focus on delivering high-quality care while enhancing both our services and efficiency.”
David Tindall, Senior Investment Manager at British Business Bank, commented: “The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II supports small businesses across the region, helping them scale and grow. This latest round of investment in Woodleigh Healthcare highlights the fund’s ongoing commitment to empowering businesses that are focused on growth and making a positive impact in the local community.”
Shaun Tuhey, Investment Manager at First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans, comments: “We are pleased to support Woodleigh Healthcare, a vital social care provider. Faced with short-term funding challenges, they remained committed to delivering essential services. Through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II , we provided a tailored, long-term solution to support their growth.
“Many businesses are unaware of the transformative support Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) like First Enterprise offer, and we’re proud to help Woodleigh overcome financial hurdles and thrive. We look forward to seeing their continued success and impact in the community.”
Trei Reid, Funding Team at Lendoe, comments: “Woodleigh Healthcare contributes significantly to the UK economy, generating hundreds of jobs and adding millions to GDP each year. We were delighted to support their growth by helping them secure affordable, long-term financing through First Enterprises’ financial offerings.”