Is there something special that you’d like to do but think you can’t afford the cost? Would it give you a break from your caring responsibilities if only for a short time each week? Would you get the chance to meet other people as well as do something different in your life? Then the new fund available to carers could be what you need. The Carers Opportunity Fund is open to individual carers wishing to apply for up to £100 towards the costs incurred by taking a break. Interested? Read more below about how to apply and what the conditions are.

You can apply for a grant if:

• You regularly care for an adult due to disability, illness, or frailty in old age (including mental health and substance misuse).
• The care you are providing is substantial and has an impact upon your own health and well-being.
• You are over 16.
• You are registered with CarerLink (or will register to apply for the fund).

Good News  !

You do not need to be known to Social Services to apply to the Carers Opportunity Fund. You can apply for yourself as long as you meet the criteria and are registered with CarerLink (or will register to apply).

Be aware that the grant is designed to support you, so it cannot be used for:

• Payment for services to support the person you care for.
• Break opportunities with the person you care for.
• Breaks already taken.

What might you want to do? How about using the fund to pay towards the cost of an adult education course or hobby? Pay for transport costs so you can attend a local leisure centre or WI meeting regularly?  Use the fund towards the cost of a complete weekend away somewhere out of the area ?

Contact CarerLink to get a simple application form. Jean or Kate will discuss it with you if you wish. A decision will be made by Northumberland Care Trust within 4 weeks of applying. Payment will be made by cheque.