West Yorkshire Project Marks Year Supporting Unpaid Carers

Over 365 Breaks Provided to Unpaid Carers in First Year

The Caring Kind Project in West Yorkshire has reached its first anniversary, having provided more than 365 breaks to over 700 unpaid carers and their families across the region. Launched in September 2025, the initiative offers regular respite opportunities to carers who may be struggling with their wellbeing or facing burnout.

How the Project Works

The project operates by collaborating with local businesses, known as Giving Partners, who donate experiences and services they have available. These contributions include meals, hotel stays, days out, wellbeing activities, and tickets to local attractions and events. The project then matches these donations with unpaid carers in Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Kirklees, and Calderdale, providing much-needed breaks from their caring responsibilities.

National Recognition

The Caring Kind Project has been shortlisted for the Carers UK Awards 2026 in the Standout Campaign for Carers category. This nomination recognises the project’s efforts to support unpaid carers through a collaborative approach involving the voluntary sector, local businesses, and communities.

Gemma Povey, Project Manager for The Caring Kind Project, highlighted the community-driven nature of the initiative, stating that the breaks have come from numerous small contributions rather than a single large donation. She emphasised the importance of local businesses and individuals working together to support carers.

Importance of Supporting Unpaid Carers

Unpaid carers provide essential care for family members or friends who are unable to manage due to illness, disability, mental health conditions, or addiction. While rewarding, caring can significantly impact a carer’s wellbeing, making occasional breaks vital for rest and personal time.

Claire Turner, Chief Executive of Carers Leeds, noted that the project offers carers opportunities to step away from their duties and focus on themselves. She also pointed to the project as an example of effective partnership between the voluntary sector and local businesses.

Invitation to Local Businesses and Individuals

As the project enters its second year, it is inviting more businesses, venues, attractions, and individuals across West Yorkshire to join its Caring Kind Community. Contributions do not require large financial donations; instead, businesses can offer existing resources such as rooms, tables, tickets, or services that might otherwise go unused. The project manages the process of matching these offers with carers who would benefit.

One carer described their experience as “wonderful” and “peaceful,” noting that the break allowed them to feel relief and understand the importance of taking time for themselves.

Contact and Further Information

Businesses and individuals interested in supporting the project can visit thecaringkindproject.org.uk or contact the project team via email at hello@thecaringkindproject.org.uk.

Summary of First Year Achievements

• More than 365 breaks provided to unpaid carers
• Support offered to over 700 unpaid carers and their families
• Shortlisted for the Carers UK Awards 2026 in the Standout Campaign for Carers category

The Caring Kind Project is managed by Carers Leeds, a registered charity and company limited by guarantee in England and Wales.

Source: Doing Good Leeds