A new grant programme has launched in Essex that will see £1.75million allocated to support unpaid carers of all ages, through local projects.
There are an estimated 124,000 unpaid carers in Essex, but we estimate this number is far greater.
Unpaid carers play a vital role in helping family and friends live independently.
Unpaid carers usually see it as their role to support relatives, friends and neighbours so they might not there is help available.
The Carers Community Fund, funded by the Councils’ Better Care Fund Allocation, aims to build localised community-based support for these carers.
Eligible groups and organisations will be able to apply for a grant between £1,000 and £30,000.
Applications open 28 November and close 30 January 2024.
Applications should demonstrate innovation and an inclusive approach to supporting carers in their communities.
Visit the Carers Community Fund webpage to find out who is eligible and to apply.
Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care and ICS Integration, Councillor John Spence said: “Our new carers’ strategy for Essex is aimed at ensuring high-quality information guidance and advice, that carers know their rights and that they feel well supported.
“Grants from this fund will particularly help the last of these, as local organisations and charities will be able to identify those projects which will best enhance the lives of the carers in their part of Essex.”
If you are an unpaid carer, support is available.
Unpaid Carers also have a number of rights. We recently launched a new campaign to raise awareness of these rights.