Covid-19 funding support for unpaid carers

Emergency grants are being made available to support unpaid carers who have been affected by the Covid-19 coronavirus crisis.

The grants are being provided by Carers Trust South East Wales for eligible carers aged 16 and over who live in the South East Wales region.

The scheme is aimed at people who provide unpaid care for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction, cannot cope without their support.

It provides up to £300 to help cover costs incurred as a result of the ongoing pandemic, such as purchasing food and essential household items, emergency home repairs that cannot wait for lockdown restrictions to be lifted, transport costs for essential journeys, and the purchase of a laptop, tablet, software, mobile phone or data allowance.

The scheme cannot be used for things like paying household utility bills, making debt and credit card payments, funding long-term replacement care, maintaining or buying motor vehicles, or for purchasing specialist equipment such as a wheelchair.

Cllr Phil White, Cabinet Member for Social Services and Early Help, said:

“As the ongoing pandemic is making it harder for people to access help and support, these grants will be of great benefit to unpaid carers as they continue to provide care for vulnerable family and friends.”

Applications must be completed by midday Monday 18 May 2020. Full details and application forms are available at the Carers Trust South East Wales website.