Carer Support Finder

There is a wealth of support on offer for unpaid carers in Edinburgh and the Lothians – from local and national charities. But it can be hard deciding exactly what help you need, and knowing where to look for it. Maybe you’re just starting out on your journey as a carer and feeling a bit overwhelmed.

We hope this simple, online directory will show you some options, and give you the confidence to reach out for the type of support you need – be it with money and benefits matters, practical help, respite breaks, mental health and wellbeing support, or simply meeting other carers in a similar situation.

To find the right support for you, simply browse the Carer Support Finder by type of support, condition of the person you’re caring for, your area / location or keyword search.

You can also click into the map page to see all services on a map and search by your area.

This Carer Support Finder is managed by VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian). We have worked closely with carers and partner organisations to develop this website and make it as useful as possible.

Take a look at our main website for more about our own support services.

We would love to hear your comments and feedback about this site. Please get in touch.

You may not have called yourself a carer until now…… maybe it’s just what you do.

If you’re helping a family member, partner, relative or friend of any age to manage a long-term condition, disability, physical or mental health problem or addiction, the answer is yes – you are a carer.

Children and teenagers can be carers too, and often their role and their needs are overlooked. A number of support services listed here offer specialised support for young carers, including the chance to have fun, try new things and meet other young people/carers.

This website was developed and is managed by VOCAL – Voice of Carers Across Lothian.

Here you will find the full spectrum of services that might be useful for carers – from benefits, money and legal advice, to emotional and wellbeing support, social groups and respite options.

Some services support specific groups, such as young carers or Black and Minority Ethnic families. Others focus on helping carers cope with the specific challenge of a condition, be it a terminal illness, dementia, autism spectrum disorder or substance misuse abuse.

At present, this directory lists carer support services based around Edinburgh and in Midlothian, as well as national partners that cover the capital and surrounding areas.

Some of the services listed here may only be available through a referral, for example from a health or social care professional.

Others are happy to hear directly from from those looking for support (known as self-referral).

You can also self-refer via VOCAL’s referral form

Caring can be challenging and often you can overlook your own mental health and wellbeing until it reaches crisis point. However, it’s really important to reach out if you are struggling to cope and access support available. Please call Edinburgh Emergency Crisis Centre for Mental Health on 0808 801 0414.

If you don’t urgently need help you can contact VOCAL.

Yes, and thanks for caring about them!

Often those in a caring role simply don’t have the time or the confidence to look for help and support when they need it most. A friend, neighbour or relative can make all the difference in encouraging a carer to reach out for the support they need.

You can refer a carer you know (with their permission) via VOCAL’s referral form.