Example one : Learning for Living
Carers UK worked with City and Guilds to develop an online learning programme for carers.  Learning for Living builds on the skills that carers and former carers have developed in their caring roles. It also helps to build confidence and develop computer skills, and could pave the way for further study or a return to a paid job.  Carers can undertake the course at home, at a carers centre, or other approved centres.

Example two : Leisure cards
A number of local authorities such as Sefton have developed leisure cards for carers which allow them to use facilities like the sports centre, transport and libraries at concessionary rates.

Cinema exhibitors Association have introduced an ID card for carers which gives them free entry to cinemas and accepted by all major chains in the UK.

Example three : Carer to carer funding : breaks and opportunities
There are many examples of councils who are cutting unnecessary bureaucracy and getting help direct to carers.  They fund carers’ organisations who can then pay carers directly for one-of costs like holidays, replacement care so carer can attend courses, and other activities.

Sunderland Holiday and Opportunities fund was set up in response to consultation with carers.  The Fund is managed by the Sunderland Carers Centre.  Payments are made to individuals or groups of carers for: breaks, activities to provide the carer or cared for person with a new skill or experience.

Devon Carers Link administer a pot of money which includes carers grant and other funding. Any carer who has joined the Carers Link can apply for funding for breaks – they do not have to have a Carers Assessment cutting out unnecessary time and paperwork.

Bracknell Carers Grant is given to carers for breaks through a panel, chaired by local carers groups. Carers can apply for up to £1000. In 2005/6 the Grant helped nearly 200 carers to take a break from caring.

“I’m a lone parent of three children, one of whom has disabilities, so I can’t access education in the same way as people who do not have my responsibilities. It is rare that I can make time for myself. Doing the course meant I had to commit to spending a certain amount of time a week, on me.. In my hectic world, it just makes perfect sense to be able to access learning through the internet. I can learn at my own leisure and choose the appropriate time for me to do it – so important for carers!”