Small Grants for Carer Activities: Spread Joy this Festive Season!
The festive season is fast approaching, and we know this time of year can bring both joy and stress, especially for those caring for loved ones. That’s why Forward Carers, in collaboration with the Neighbourhood Network Scheme (NNS), is offering small grants of up to £500 to help Carers create memorable, social, and fun activities in their communities alongside other unpaid Carers.
These grants are an opportunity to bring people together. We want to ensure every Carer gets a chance to enjoy this special time of year in ways that enhance wellbeing, foster connections, and spread festive cheer.
What Can the Grant Be Used For?
These grants are available to fund local, grassroots activities that help unpaid Carers relax, socialise, and take a break from their caring responsibilities. You can use the grant to organise one-off or multiple activities that meet at least two of the following criteria:
- Boost Carer Wellbeing: Host events that offer Carers the chance to relax, recharge, and improve their mental and physical health.
- Festive Fun: Plan enjoyable, social activities where Carers can celebrate the season with others.
- Respond to Local Needs: Address the unique needs of Carers in your area by providing much-needed support during this busy time.
- Create New Opportunities: Offer activities that Carers wouldn’t otherwise have access to, helping them experience something new this holiday season.
- Support LGBTQI+ Carers: Bring together Carers from all backgrounds, especially those from LGBTQI+ communities, for inclusive, supportive events.
- Community Connection: Bring Carers and other community members together, provided there are at least four unpaid Carers involved.
Who Can Apply?
If you’re an unpaid Carer aged 18 or over, living in Birmingham, and registered with Birmingham Carers Hub, you are eligible to apply for this grant. Local groups and organisations supporting Carers are also welcome to apply and create activities to spread festive joy.
How to Apply
It’s simple! You can apply for the £500 grant by submitting a short application that outlines how your activity or event will benefit unpaid Carers in your community.
Go to https://forward1.grantplatform.com/ to register on the site and start your application. Before you begin, make sure you read all the information to give you the best chance of success.
What is the Grant Fund?
Managed by Forward Carers and funded by Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Children’s Trust, and Birmingham and Solihull ICB, as part of Birmingham Carers Hub, this grant fund empowers unpaid Carer groups to organise activities that promote wellbeing and social connections. We’re committed to supporting Carers across Birmingham, and our partnership with the NNS schemes enhances our ability to reach Carers from all corners of the city.
What is the NNS?
The Neighbourhood Network Schemes (NNS) are funded by Adult Social Care, Birmingham City Council, to develop the support people need to lead happy, healthy, independent lives in their own homes and communities. There is a Neighbourhood Network in each of Birmingham’s 10 constituencies, most of which are run by a range of voluntary and community sector organisations. Each NNS works with community groups, organisations, and local services to develop activities and support adults over 18 years in need to lead happy, healthy, and independent lives.
We’re excited to see how these grants will help Carers across Birmingham enjoy a festive season full of support, joy, and community spirit. Don’t miss this opportunity to spread some holiday cheer!
For more details and to apply, please visit https://forward1.grantplatform.com/
Good luck! We wish you the best with your application!
