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Unpaid carers in Wales will be able to claim grants of up to £300 as part of new funding announced by Welsh Government.

The Carers Support Fund aims to help unpaid carers buy essentials such as food, household items and electronics such as laptops to access support and services.

The announcement was made by Welsh Government’s deputy minister for health and social services, Julie Morgan, with £1m being made available as part of the fund.

Mrs Morgan said: “We have seen unpaid carers working longer hours and the pandemic has made it more difficult for carers to cope with their caring role and live the life they choose.

“Some are struggling to cope with the extra costs caused by Covid-19 and the aim of the Carers Support Fund is to help alleviate some of this additional, unnecessary pressure.”

Simon Hatch, director of Carers Trust Wales, called the announcement an “important step towards recognising and addressing the very real and growing pressures facing thousands of unpaid carers across Wales”.

Mr Hatch said: “For many carers, the pandemic has had a significant and negative impact on their health, wellbeing and financial security.

“We welcome Welsh Government’s investment to support carers experiencing financial hardship and look forward to working with them to ensure all carers get the recognition they deserve and the support they need.”

Labour Senedd Member Hefin David, who represents the Caerphilly constituency, welcomed the funding and said: “I’m so grateful to the unpaid carers in Caerphilly and across Wales, who continue to be completely selfless and do so much to care for others, particularly during the current climate.

“I hope the grant brings some financial relief and I hope that it makes a difference. It’s great to see people getting the recognition that they deserve.”

The fund will be available until March 31. Information on how to apply will be made available at carers.org/wales