A grant to support unpaid carers to look after someone who has recently left hospital is available until 31st March.
Leicestershire County Council’s Hospital Discharge Grant is a one-off grant for those who face unexpected costs due to someone returning home after leaving hospital.
Carers aged over 18 who support an adult living in Leicestershire who cannot manage everyday life without their help may be eligible for the grant.
Applications for the scheme must be sent within two weeks of their loved one’s return home after a stay in hospital.
The grant is funded through the government’s Accelerating Reform Fund (ARF) project and is being run by the county council.
Carers often incur unexpected extra costs, including having to take time off work or paying for cleaning, housework, or short-term sitting services.
“Because many people don’t see themselves as unpaid carers, they may not be aware of our Support for Carers’ service.
“Of the 305 carers in Leicestershire who have been awarded a grant so far, 223 of them were previously unknown to our support service. This grant has once again helped us reach out to the hidden carers in our communities.
“We’ve already seen how this grant can offer much-needed support to people and I would urge anyone who is either preparing for the discharge of a loved one or has recently helped someone return home safely to consider applying within the two-week deadline.”
Person:Councillor Carl Abbott, cabinet member for adult social care
Some of the carers who have recently received a grant spoke about the scheme. One commented that:
“The grant had a tremendous impact on our wellbeing - being able to get the things we desperately needed without having to worry about the cost each time was so helpful.
“The money was extremely helpful, paying for things like a cleaner in the morning and help towards fuel costs. But what was better than the money was someone on the end of the phone to talk to, who listened and understood, so important when it felt like everything was falling apart.”
Person:A Leicestershire carer
Voluntary Action South Leicestershire (VASL) is administering the scheme on behalf of the county council. Carers can apply by completing the online application form on the Support for Carers website.
Alternatively, carers can call VASL on 01858 468543 or email maureen@supportforcarers.org for advice and support to complete the application.
If the cared for person lives in Leicester visit the Age UK Carers Support Service website. or contact Age UK: Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland: 0116 222 0556 or email carers@ageukleics.org.uk support.
For more information on the practical and financial help available for carers, visit our looking after someone page.