How the Chesterton House Foundation is Supporting the Carers Trust

Unpaid carers are the quiet heroes of our communities, providing selfless support to family members or friends living with illness, disability, mental health challenges, or addiction. Their responsibilities can range from everyday tasks such as shopping and medication to intensive, round-the-clock care. Yet too often, carers go unrecognised and under-supported, facing financial, physical, and emotional strain.

The Need for Support

Across the East Midlands, around 32,000 carers are supported by Carers Trust centres in Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire. Since 2021, over £42,000 in grants has been distributed to 182 carers, but the demand continues to outstrip supply. A £1,000 grant from the Chesterton House Foundation will fund three additional carers through the Carers Fund programme, each receiving a £300 grant to access vital resources, training, or respite.

What Is the Carers Funds Programme?

The Carers Funds programme is a lifeline for unpaid carers facing financial hardship while providing essential care. Grants of up to £300, made available through local carers organisations, can cover respite breaks, essential household items, or access to training and support. By easing practical pressures, these grants help carers maintain their vital roles with greater confidence and dignity.

Raymond’s Story: A Real-World Impact

Raymond, who has cared for his wife Doreen for over 17 years, knows firsthand the difference these grants can make. Doreen, living with COPD and limited mobility, needed extra support when their washing machine broke during the pandemic. Shielding from Covid-19, Raymond struggled to manage laundry by hand while providing full-time care.

Thanks to a £300 Carers Funds grant, Raymond was able to replace the washing machine, easing his daily burden and helping him maintain independence while continuing to care for Doreen safely.

Meeting the Growing Demand

With economic pressures rising, more carers like Raymond will need urgent support. By contributing to the Carers Funds programme, the Chesterton House Foundation helps ensure carers can continue their vital work, knowing practical assistance is available when they need it most.

Help Us Do More

Through the Chesterton House Foundation, we support programmes like Carers Funds that make a real, tangible difference to people’s lives. If you would like to help extend this impact, please consider making a donation to the Foundation.

To find out more about Carers Trust and their work supporting unpaid carers, visit their website here.