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Unpaid carers across south Wales can receive grants of up to £300 to cover essential items during the cost-of-living crisis.

Carers, who provide care for an adult or disabled child, can apply for grants to cover the costs of food and household items.

The Welsh Government fund is being administered by Carers Trust, along with groups such as the Care Collective, which supports unpaid carers.

Karen Robson, chief executive of the Care Collective, said: “We know many carers are on fixed incomes and have therefore struggled with managing rising costs, such as for heating, clothing and food. 

“The fund has been operating since October 2020 and has already demonstrated providing direct support to unpaid carers has had a positive impact on those experiencing financial difficulties.”

Caerphilly’s Labour Senedd Member, Hefin David, said: “The Welsh Government has committed £4.5m investment in the Carers Support Fund since 2022 and over three financial years.

“The Carers Support Fund is intended to support unpaid carers who are experiencing financial hardship, due to the cost-of-living crisis and the ongoing impact of the pandemic. Anyone who provides care for an adult, or disabled child can apply.”

Dr David continued: “There are also other grants available which are funded by Welsh Government and the Gwent Regional Partnership Board for those in the Caerphilly constituency.

“This includes the Amser fund, which gives unpaid carers a one-off grant for some respite or ‘me time’. I would really encourage all unpaid carers to have a look at the Care Collective website for more details on the grants and on how to apply“.