Extra support for parent carers in Scotland to help families take a break

An extra £1.1 million investment has enabled Family Fund to support a further 3,000 carers through the Take a Break Scotland programme this year, following exceptionally high demand. The funding means families who were previously unable to receive support due to oversubscription will now be able to access grants for short breaks, days out, or time away together.

The announcement brings the total number of carers supported through Take a Break Scotland in 2025–26 to more than 8,500, helping families recharge and spend valuable time together.

Cheryl Ward CBE, Group Chief Executive of Family Fund, welcomed the added support:

“We know how vital it is for carers to have the chance to rest and recharge. The overwhelming number of applications Family Fund has received shows just how urgent this need is.

We’re thrilled that the Scottish Government has provided additional funding to support a further 3,000 carers through Take a Break Scotland this year.

The feedback we’ve received underscores how much this support truly matters to those with caring responsibilities. We’re also proud that Family Fund was able to distribute these grants quickly to those who needed them most.”

Take a Break Scotland provides cash grants directly to parent carers of disabled or seriously ill children and young people, allowing families the flexibility to choose a break that works for them, whether that is a day out, a short stay away, or activities that support rest and recovery.

This additional funding recognises the essential role unpaid carers play and forms part of the Scottish Government’s wider commitment to supporting carers’ wellbeing across Scotland.

Family Fund is proud to deliver Take a Break Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government and remains committed to ensuring support reaches families who need it most.

Find out more about the additional funding and support for carers on the Scottish Government website.