Forward Carers CIC take stewardship of nationally-recognised discount programme

The nationally-recognised Max Card scheme is switching from Dubit Ltd to Birmingham-based Forward Carers CIC - marking a new chapter for the UK-wide discount programme supporting families of children and young people with additional needs.

Since 2008, Dubit has developed and grown Max Card into a trusted national scheme, helping thousands of families access inclusive days out and leisure opportunities at reduced cost. The programme has formed part of Dubit’s wider social impact work and has become widely recognised by local authorities and venues across the country.

Following a planned strategic decision, stewardship of the scheme will now move to Forward Carers CIC - an established not-for-profit Community Interest Company founded in 2014 and working in partnership with local authorities and community organisations across England.

Crucially, there will be no immediate changes to how the scheme operates.

Ordering processes, pricing, participating venues and the way families use the card all remain the same.

Forward Carers brings direct experience of delivering national identification and discount schemes, alongside robust governance, compliance and Cyber Essentials Plus accredited data security standards.

The organisation is nationally recognised for impact, including being named Carers UK Outstanding Carers Service 2025 and a Top 100 Social Enterprise UK organisation.

Ian Douthwaite, president of Dubit Ltd, said: “Max Card has been a proud part of Dubit’s social impact work for many years, and we are incredibly proud of what it has achieved for families across the UK.

“We wanted to ensure the scheme’s long-term future was secured within an organisation whose core mission aligns strongly with inclusion and community support. Forward Carers brings the right ethos and infrastructure to take Max Card forward.”

Chantell Marler, programme director at Forward Carers CIC, said: “Max Card already has strong foundations and trusted partnerships.

“Our focus is long-term stewardship - protecting what works well while carefully strengthening and developing the scheme in partnership with local authorities, venues and families.

“The purpose remains the same: helping families feel included and able to access everyday experiences.”

Pictured from left to right: Dave Rodgers, CEO of Midand Mencap and chair of the Board at Forward Carers, Chantell Marler, programme director at Forward Carers CIC, Ian Douthwaite, president of Dubit Ltd, and Simon Fenton, CEO at Forward Carers CIC