Date: 03/11/2026

Milestones Trust is pleased to announce the successful completion of its merger with the Ordinary Life Project Association (OLPA), marking an important step in the strengthening of the charity’s support for people with learning disabilities and mental health needs in Wiltshire and the wider region.

This week’s merger brings together two organisations with a shared commitment to enabling people to live happy and fulfilled lives within their communities. The combined organisation, which will operate as Milestones Trust, now supports an additional 27 people across Wiltshire and welcomes around 50 colleagues from OLPA into the organisation, further establishing Milestones as a trusted ‘large but local’ provider in the south west.

The completed merger also creates new opportunities to share expertise and build on the strengths of both organisations while maintaining the strong focus on delivering high-quality, person-centred support for which both organisations are known.

Hilary Crowhurst, Chief Executive Officer of Milestones Trust, said:

“We are delighted to formally welcome our OLPA colleagues and the people they support to Milestones Trust. This merger brings together two organisations that share similar values and ambitions, and a commitment to helping people live the lives they choose. We are stronger together, and by combining our experience and resources, we are well placed to continue delivering excellent support long into the future. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to making this merger such a success.”

Ray Edwards, Chair of the OLPA Trustee Board, said:

“Today is an important moment for OLPA and marks the beginning of an important new chapter. I would like to thank the colleagues, trustees and supporters who have contributed to OLPA’s success over many years. Their dedication has made a real and positive difference to people’s lives. As we join Milestones Trust, we do so knowing that those same values and commitment to quality support will continue to guide the organisation into the future.

“I am confident that the people we support and our colleagues will benefit from being part of a larger organisation that remains focused on putting people first.”

The merger follows an extensive period of planning and collaboration between both organisations, with a shared focus on ensuring continuity of support for people using services, and a smooth transition for colleagues.

Milestones Trust operates across Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Somerset and Wiltshire, supporting people with learning disabilities, and people with mental health needs to live their best lives.