Helping those who care - tackling the cost of living crisis together
Published 22 January 2025
Did you know that over 90% of unpaid carers are cutting back on heating and essentials to make ends meet? Many face impossible choices, like deciding between staying warm or buying food. At Making Space, we believe no one should have to make these decisions. Thanks to generous support, we are making a real difference in the lives of unpaid carers during these challenging times.
Through grants totalling £40,000, including a generous £10,000 contribution from the Hobson Charity, Making Space has been able to provide vital assistance to hundreds of people. Here’s how these funds are helping those who need it most:
- Fuel bills relief: supporting unpaid carers to stay warm during the cold months.
- Food vouchers: providing essentials to families facing financial struggles.
- Essential household goods grants: replacing white goods like kettles and microwaves to save energy and reduce costs.
- Winter survival bags: supplying gloves, scarves, socks, and hot drinks to keep people warm and comfortable.
Joan, an unpaid carer in Calderdale, shared her experience:
"Thank you for the funds to replace my kettle and microwave. Boiling a pan for a cuppa was using so much more gas than the kettle, and using the oven to cook was never as economical as the microwave. I went to get them straight away and then spent the food voucher on things to cook in it. You can't believe the difference it makes. I have a spring in my step, knowing help is around when times are hard."
Our Fundraising Manager, Bob Towers, highlighted the impact of this support:
"Unpaid carers often have to spend longer periods at home providing care for a loved one. Others need specialist equipment, which can use more electricity. We have found that almost 90% of unpaid carers are reducing their heating, with around 14% going without heating at all. Providing them with urgent support has made a positive difference in the lives of hundreds of unpaid carers and the people they care for. We still need donations and offers of help."
This incredible work wouldn’t be possible without the support of charitable trusts and foundations, whose kindness has brought warmth and hope to so many. We extend our heartfelt thanks to:
- The Hobson Charity
- Calderdale Community Foundation
- Sir James & Lady Scott Trust
- Bolton Household Fund
- Calderdale Council Household Support Fund
- One Stop Shop Community Partnership
- County Durham Community Foundation
- Cheshire East Community Response Fund
- Edith Murphy Foundation
Join us to keep making a difference
Every act of kindness counts. With your help, we can continue to support unpaid carers and their loved ones during these difficult times. Donate today or share this story to spread the word.