Age Cymru Gwent story

Easing Financial Pressure and Restoring Wellbeing

Over the past six months, Age Cymru Gwent has been a lifeline for carers facing financial strain, offering practical support that not only eased money worries but also helped restore a sense of wellbeing and control.

Angela Knowles-Macleod, Quality and Advice Manager, Age Cymru Gwent, shares, “We supported 92 carers seeking financial assistance, plus six who applied directly for grants. Our focus was on income maximisation, carrying out benefit checks, identifying eligible grants and rebates, and offering hands-on help with applications.”

The team worked closely with carers to review benefits, complete forms, and access heating support - especially for those vulnerable to fuel poverty. As heating costs rose in the autumn, Age Cymru Gwent responded with tailored advice on energy efficiency and free energy checks through their Help at Home Service.

“Rising heating costs continue to be a recurring concern from September onwards,” Angela explains. “We share advice on home energy efficiency and provide free energy checks to help carers stay warm and well.”

Financial stress can strip carers of choice and control, adding to the emotional weight of their responsibilities. Constant worry about daily costs can erode wellbeing and make it harder to cope. Thanks to the funding, carers received immediate relief from these pressures. Support with essential household expenses - like supermarket vouchers and replacing vital appliances such as tumble dryers and vacuum cleaners - makes a real difference.

Through our support, many carers have seen improvements in their financial situation, which has had a positive impact on their mental health and overall wellbeing.

Building Confidence and Connection

Support was tailored to each carer’s situation, helping to strengthen financial resilience and provide clear access to relevant information and guidance.

Helping carers access the correct income provides a sense of financial security and reduces anxiety related to money - allowing them to focus more fully on their caring roles.

Carers engaged through Age Cymru Gwent’s services were also introduced to wider support available through partner organisations. This increased awareness helped build confidence, self-reliance and long-term resilience.

“We’ve been able to offer tailored support for those in more isolated situations,” Angela adds. “One key example is the installation of free scam call blockers. These have enhanced carers’ sense of safety and substantially reduced anxiety - especially for those supporting individuals with cognitive decline. For many, this technology has provided real peace of mind.”

Lisa’s Story: Reclaiming Time and Peace

Lisa* cares for her mother while also managing her own household. The demands of running two homes and supporting her mother’s increasing care needs had a significant impact on her wellbeing. She had to stop working and now relies on a limited benefit income. With no time to return to work, stress and exhaustion began to take their toll.

Through the grant, facilitated by a referral from the Alzheimer’s Society, Lisa received a condenser tumble dryer - reducing the time and effort needed to manage laundry for both homes.

“Having the tumble dryer makes such a difference – I can finally get on top of things without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a weight off my mind.”

Now, laundry no longer piles up and Lisa has reclaimed some precious time for herself.

Mrs Richards’ Story: From Isolation to Inclusion

Mrs Richards* is a full-time carer for her husband, who has early onset dementia. She’s been providing care for over seven years, and as his needs have grown, so has the isolation. A recent switch from Universal Credit to State Pension caused a temporary gap in payments, adding financial stress to an already demanding role.Her tablet computer was a lifeline - connecting her to carers support groups, religious services, online shopping, banking and friends. But when it stopped holding a charge, she felt cut off. Through the fund, Mrs Richards received an e-voucher to purchase a replacement tablet.

This tablet will make such a difference – I can stay in touch with my friends and support networks and manage daily tasks without feeling cut off.

The new device didn’t just restore her digital connection, it restored her confidence.

Everyday Support, Lasting Impact

Through this project, Age Cymru Gwent has continued to assist carers under considerable pressure, reducing hardship and enhancing quality of life. These small but powerful interventions provide practical support,  transforming daily life for carers, and helping them feel seen, supported and empowered.

With the right help, carers can continue their vital roles while also caring for themselves - remaining connected, independent, and resilient.

^{* Names are changed to protect privacy}