Founded in 2012, Zanta Healthcare is a West Midlands–based social care provider delivering supported living services for adults with complex mental health needs. Led by founder Martha Mhonyera, a qualified nurse with extensive NHS experience, the organisation was established to demonstrate that stable, high-quality care environments lead to better outcomes for individuals and reduced pressure on public services.
Martha began Zanta Healthcare as the sole employee, overseeing all aspects of delivery and management. Over time, the organisation has grown in a measured and sustainable way and now employs 35 staff, with plans to expand to 45 employees as new supported living properties come into operation.
Investment Readiness support gives Zanta Healthcare a healthy boost
As Zanta Healthcare prepared to enter a new phase of growth, Martha engaged with the Business Growth West Midlands Investment Readiness Programme. The programme provided structured support to help clarify the organisation’s growth ambitions, strengthen financial planning and ensure the business was well prepared to engage with investors and lenders.
Through workshops, peer-to-peer learning and one-to-one guidance, the programme helped Martha refine Zanta Healthcare’s investment narrative and better articulate both its social impact and commercial viability. It also supported a clearer understanding of investor expectations, enabling the business to present its plans with confidence and credibility when opportunities arose.
Martha commented: “The programme created a clear pathway for growth, ensuring that the right foundations were in place before approaching funders.”
This preparation proved instrumental in enabling Zanta Healthcare to move forward with property acquisition and secure finance through established banking routes.
Delivering independence and long-term outcomes
Zanta Healthcare’s model is centred on long-term stability, consistency and independence. Many service users have previously spent extended periods in hospital settings. Through supported living, individuals are given the opportunity to rebuild their lives in familiar environments with trusted staff, enabling meaningful progress such as reconnecting with family, travelling independently and participating in their local communities.
The organisation places particular emphasis on helping people move forward rather than remaining dependent on services, while still ensuring appropriate ongoing support is available when needed.
Reducing hospital admissions and easing NHS demand
One of Zanta Healthcare’s most significant impacts is its success in reducing hospital readmissions. Approximately up to 95% of service users do not return to hospital, either for mental or physical health needs. Since 2020, service users have remained in the same homes, creating continuity that supports mental wellbeing and reduces the likelihood of crisis.
This outcome represents a substantial contribution to relieving pressure on NHS services and demonstrates the effectiveness of stable, community-based care models.
Strategic growth through property ownership
To protect service quality and long-term stability, Zanta Healthcare made the strategic decision to purchase supported living properties rather than rely on private landlords. Rising rents and short-term tenancies had the potential to undermine both service user wellbeing and business sustainability.
Property ownership has given Zanta Healthcare greater control over accommodation quality, financial planning and continuity of care. This expansion will double supported living capacity from 21 beds, nearly double turnover, and move the organisation towards revenues of over £2 million.
Growing with purpose, caring with impact
Zanta Healthcare is now focused on completing its expansion and exploring future community-based residential models that continue to prioritise independence and quality of life. While Martha’s role has evolved strategically, her motivation remains firmly rooted in social impact and meaningful change.
Funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority and delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice, the Investment Readiness Programme supports SMEs, assisting both new and established companies, as well as high-growth businesses seeking investment.
