Welsh Government extends support for unpaid carers
The Welsh Government has announced £15.75 million in new funding over the next three years to continue two major support schemes for unpaid carers across Wales.
The Short Breaks Scheme and the Carers Support Fund, both described as lifelines for thousands of carers, will now run until 2029.
The Short Breaks Scheme allows unpaid carers of all ages to take time away from their caring responsibilities through social activities, leisure memberships, or hobby equipment. Since launching, it has delivered over 50,000 breaks, far exceeding its original target of 30,000.
The Carers Support Fund provides emergency financial help to unpaid carers on low incomes, covering essentials such as food, household items, and energy bills. Between April 2022 and April 2025, it supported 29,500 carers, nearly twice the initial goal of 15,000. The fund also offers welfare and financial advice to promote longer-term stability.
Announcing the funding, Minister for Children and Social Care Dawn Bowden said:
“This announcement demonstrates our commitment to unpaid carers who play a vital role in communities throughout Wales.
“The Short Breaks Scheme and Carers Support Fund have proven their worth time and again including reaching carers who need support but were previously not known to services.
“These schemes are not just about providing respite and financial support – they’re about recognising the invaluable contribution carers make to our society and ensuring they have the support to look after their own wellbeing whilst caring for others.”
Director of Carers Trust Wales, Kate Cubbage, said:
“Unpaid carers are vital to sustaining our health and social care system providing much needed and valued support within families and communities across Wales.
“We know that good care is supported care. Too often carers tell us that they are left to care alone without the right support to look after themselves or to do other things that matter to them. Many reaching out for support when they hit crisis point.
“Confirmation of multi-year funding for the Carers Support Fund and National Short Breaks Scheme provides much needed investment in the services that are best placed to be there for carers when they need it most. Together, they will give a lifeline to tens of thousands of carers giving them much-needed opportunities to rest and recharge and offering urgent financial help to those making the difficult choice between heating and eating.
“Welsh Government’s long-term investment provides much-needed stability and certainty, not only for carers, but also for the local organisations working tirelessly to support them. This funding announcement is an important recognition of the valuable role carers play and the importance of prioritising support for them.”
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