Unpaid carers provide support to family members, relatives, friends and neighbours who have a long-term condition, disability, physical or mental health condition or an addiction. VOCAL, Voice of Carers Across Lothian, is a charity which supports unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

2022 has been a challenging year for many, and the impact of the cost of living crisis on carers has been unimaginable. We know electricity is a necessity for everyday life, but when electricity powers vital equipment to support those with health conditions or heating to keep the frail warm, there is no longer a choice. It is a necessary cost to live. These are some of the stark situations that carers now find themselves in, facing deep poverty with serious impacts on their physical and mental health.

Many carers or people with life limiting conditions can’t afford a break, particularly a longer trip away with family. At a time when the cost of living is at a record high, for many, the potential of a few days away from usual caring routines appears impossible. VOCAL opened a carer cottage in Blair Atholl this year to provide unpaid carers and people with life-limiting conditions with a relaxing break from caring routines.

Their Christmas Appeal asks for support to subsidise or cover costs of a free break for carers at Hawthorn Brae. Your donation, no matter how small, will make a difference to carers and those they care for. Your contribution could cover:

• £10 essential food/drink supplies
• £30 utilities and heating
• £50 Need to think of something
• £100 cleaning and laundry

For more information, please visit: Give the gift of a break – VOCAL