Caring for a family member, friend, or neighbour can be challenging and often comes at significant personal cost. Without sufficient support or meaningful breaks it can take its toll on carers emotional and physical health, their ability to work and also have a knock-on effect on their long-term finance.

For carers a break is time off from caring and a chance to do things they would like to do, but cant do while they are caring everyday things such as catching up with friends, going for a walk, or simply catching up on sleep. It could be for 30 minutes, an afternoon, or a week. A break could be provided by accessing care services such as replacement care, sitting services, a day service, or through support from family and friends providing either respite or essential care.

Over the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on carers ability to access breaks.

Mecca support carers through Cares Trust & their Network Partners

Carers Essentials Fund - Carers can apply for grants towards the cost of vital equipment such as washing machines, cookers, fridge freezers or a bed.

Carers Take Time Out Fund - Is giving carers time out from caring to relax, do something for themselves and recharge their batteries.

Carers Skills Fund - Is enabling carers to learn new skills to help them with caring or to return to work.