BEMSCA was established in September 1993 initially to provide a luncheon club service for older members of the Caribbean, Asian and Chinese communities within Bath and North East Somerset. BEMSCA offers space where older people can meet and socialise with people from a similar ethnic background to themselves. They can also access advice and information on a broad range of health, housing and welfare issues which can be a lifeline to communities who do not speak English as their first language.

Why the community needs us
We run a day care centre and outreach programme which supports members who are unable to leave their home because of their health or disability. Through the employment of part time project workers plus a team of volunteers, we work with representatives across a broad range of services including banks, utility services, healthcare, legal advice and support to ensure members can make informed decisions about issues that affect their quality of life.

Our impact on the community
BEMSCA services over 350 members and their families to ensure that the needs of the BME community have been considered. Demand on our services is very high and we are looking to develop work across a broad range of ethnic groups.