We are delighted to announce that the Scottish Government and East Lothian Council have confirmed continuation funding for CoEL to deliver Time for Me grants programme throughout 2025 and up to April 2026.
The Time for Me grants programme enables unpaid carers in East Lothian to apply for financial support to take a break from their caring responsibilities. Breaks are tailored to individual needs and circumstances. This is because, from experience, we know that what feels like a break is different for every carer. Examples of the types of breaks that our Time for Me grants have funded in the past include:
- spa treatments
- equipment or clothing to pursue hobbies e.g. running shoes, binoculars
- accommodation for a weekend away
- leisure membership/ annual membership schemes
- devices, eg. ipad
Two carers who benefitted from a grant in 2024 shared the following feedback with us:
“I felt so relaxed, was able to meet friends for coffee, go out when I wanted to… I had full night’s sleep every night. On arriving at the hotel I fell asleep at 9.30pm woke at 8am next morning, there was no pressure to always be on high alert for [my husband]”
“We had a lovely, relaxing time. I also had some quality time to speak to [my daughter] as I haven’t for a long time. I would like to thank you for the kind donation. It certainly made me have time to clear my head.”
If you are interested in applying for a Time for Me grant, please contact us on 01316650135 or centre@coel.org.uk and request a ‘Time for Me’ conversation with our Building Better Breaks Coordinator.
They will help you to:
- think about what type of break from caring would work best in your circumstances.
- decide what would best meet your needs e.g. leisure membership, hobby equipment, subscription, spa day, weekend away, concert tickets, meal out etc. – the possibilities are endless!
- find practical solutions to challenges that may prevent you from getting time for yourself.
- provide information on other services that may assist you to take a break from caring e.g. care providers, replacement care, accessible holiday facilities etc.
- apply for a Time for Me grant (dependent on available funding) or other financial assistance if necessary.
The average Time for Me grant is around £350 but the amount will vary depending on individual needs and circumstances.
Please note that we cannot accept applications from carers who have already received a Time for Me grant within the past 12 months.