History

The idea for Crossroads Care Attendant Services arose out of a situation depicted in the TV series “Crossroads” in 1972.  One character was disabled by an accident and the effect of this on family and carers was dramatically portrayed.  Many of the viewers identified with the situation and a group of people, including a disabled viewer, got together to set up the first Crossroads Care Attendant Scheme in Rugby in 1973.  The first scheme in Scotland was set up in 1977.

The Lewis scheme started in 1986.  Originally intended for Stornoway and the surrounding district, it serves the whole of Lewis since 1999.

Crossroads Lewis, whilst affiliated to Crossroads Caring Scotland, is an independent charity with its own Board of Management.

In 2003, the Macmillan Crossroads Project was initiated in collaboration with Macmillan Cancer Support who funded the new service for 3 years.

We continue to work closely with the Macmillan Nurse Team in supporting individuals and families affected by cancer, especially when individuals wish to remain at home at the end of life.

This service is now funded by NHS Western Isles and is a broader Palliative Service, available for other terminal illnesses in addition to cancer.

We maintain and value positive working relationships with CNES Social Work, NHS Western Isles and local voluntary groups so that, between us all, maximum support is given where it is most needed in the community.

• 1974 National Scheme started in Rugby, Midlands, England.
• 1977 First Scottish Scheme established in Glasgow
• 1986/7 Stornoway and District Scheme started
• 1977 Incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee, recognised by the Inland Revenue as a Charity and renamed Crossroads Lewis as service expanded.
• 2000 Over 50 schemes throughout Scotland
• 2003 Macmillan Crossroads Project set up