A charity in Wiltshire that supports people with mental health issues and learning disabilities has merged into a larger counterpart that operates across the South West.

Wiltshire based Ordinary Life Project Association (OLPA) has become part of Milestones Trust, which runs support services across Somerset, Bath, South Gloucestershire, Bristol and Wiltshire.

The move sees the Trust, which retains its name following the merger, support an additional 27 people in the region, and 50 staff from OLPA will transfer to the Trust.

The merger to create a £50m income a year organisation follows a long-standing collaboration between the two charities.

“We are delighted to formally welcome our OLPA colleagues and the people they support to Milestones Trust,” said the Trust’s chief executive Hilary Crowhurst.

“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.”

OLPA chair Ray Edwards added: “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 Milestone Trust’s income in the 12 months to March 2026 was £46.6m.

OLPA’s spending has outstripped its income for the last two financial years, ending March 2025 and 2026. Over this period it earnt £4.13m but spent £4.61m.

---