Following a public consultation with over 200 responses, we have agreed to extend our carer’s one-off payment scheme, helping to recognise Barnsley’s unpaid carers and support them in their caring role.
From April, one-off payments will be awarded following a carer’s assessment with our Adult Social Care team. We hope this change will allow more unpaid carers to have in-depth conversations about the impact of their caring role and how we can help them access support in their communities.
We worked closely with partners and local people looking after loved ones to inform the scheme’s new approach. We want to thank all the carers who had their say on our one-off payments, telling us about the difference they make in their caring role.
Your feedback showed how popular the scheme is, which is why we will be keeping the same eligibility criteria.
Unpaid carers can access small one-off payments of up to £300 once a year which they can use to help them in their caring role. They can use these payments in lots of ways, including going on short breaks, buying home appliances or training to learn new skills.
You can see how some of our carers used their payments on our YouTube channel.
These one-off payments are one of the ways we will achieve our Carers’ Strategy ambitions and help recognise the vital role carers play in our communities.
Launched last year, our new Carers’ Strategy sets out our vision to support more unpaid carers in our communities, making sure they have all the information and advice they need.
We worked closely with carers of all ages to develop the strategy, listening to their experiences to find out where they feel supported and where they face challenges.
Councillor Jenny Platts, Cabinet Spokesperson for Place Health and Adult Social Care, said: “We believe everyone in Barnsley should have the best possible chance of enjoying life in good physical and mental health. Our carers play a vital role in our communities, which is why I’m delighted we can continue recognising all their hard work through our one-off payments scheme.
“By linking the payments to our Adult Social Care team, we hope to encourage more carers to come forward to get the support they need and achieve what matters most to them. Whether you look after a loved one, friend or neighbour, support is always available. Visit our support for carers webpage to find out how we can help you.”
Carer’s assessments are your chance to discuss how your caring duties affect you and what support you might need to look after others. You can learn more about our assessments and the support available to carers on our Adult Social Care webpage.
Alternatively, call 01226 773300 to start your assessment or ask for any advice.
