Hitchin-based independent charity Crossroads Caring for Life is named in the Top 5 Charities and Top 25 East of England Companies to Work For, ranking #3 and #9 respectively, achieving World Class status. 

Aimee Hogan, HR Manager and member of Crossroads' Executive Team who joined the charity in 2015, said: "These results reflect the dedication of our teams across Hertfordshire who support unpaid carers and their loved ones every day. 

"Their compassion and commitment drive both our services and our supportive workplace culture. I'm incredibly proud of what they achieve." 

Widely recognised as a benchmark for workplace excellence, the annual Best Companies survey assesses employers across leadership, wellbeing, staff engagement and workplace culture. 

Crossroads' rankings have risen steadily since last year, from #4 and #13 to #3 and #9, reflecting ongoing investment in workplace wellbeing. A 2025 internal survey showed 97% of employees feel proud to work for Crossroads. 

Jeremy Colman, Chair of Trustees at Crossroads, said: "This recognition comes at a time when unpaid carers need more support than ever. Our people rise to that challenge every day, and their dedication makes Crossroads a true lifeline for local families." 

The announcement comes during a period of increasing need for community care across the UK. Census 2021 data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows there are 5.8 million unpaid carers in the UK, with 1.7 million providing 50+ hours of care per week.  

Carers UK reports that over half (52%) of unpaid carers say their weekly hours have increased in the past year, despite many struggling to balance their own health, finances and work. These findings highlight the growing pressures carers face and the vital role of community-based services like Crossroads. 

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In May 2025, Crossroads was awarded the North Herts and Stevenage Helping You Care (HYC) contract by Hertfordshire County Council, enabling the charity to provide around 12 hours of fully funded care to unpaid carers waiting for a formal Carers Assessment. Upon completion, Crossroads can continue supporting families through its Homecare and Breakaway services, tailored to individual needs. 

Demand for HYC support continues to grow, and the charity is expanding its Support Worker team to deliver this service. At the same time, Crossroads is recruiting more staff to expand its Homecare service across North, East and West Hertfordshire, ensuring even more families receive the care and support they need. 

Support Worker roles are ideal for people seeking meaningful work in their community, supporting older or disabled people in their own homes with an employer committed to training and development. 

To find out more about Crossroads or join their World Class team, visit: https://crossroadscaring.org.uk/join