Deadline: 16-Apr-2026
Creative Breaks provides funding to third sector organisations in Scotland to deliver short breaks and activities for unpaid carers and the people they care for. Grants of up to £35,000 for incorporated organisations and £10,000 for unincorporated organisations support initiatives that improve wellbeing, strengthen support networks, and provide meaningful respite experiences.
Overview
Creative Breaks supports third sector organisations delivering short break projects for unpaid carers of adults and young carers. The programme aims to:
- Provide respite and enjoyable activities for carers and those they care for.
- Enhance wellbeing and reduce social isolation for carers.
- Strengthen support networks within communities.
- Enable organisations to deliver high-quality, meaningful experiences.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must be:
- Third sector organisations operating in Scotland.
- OSCR-registered charities or constituted organisations with exclusively charitable purposes delivering public benefit.
- Organisations with all relevant registrations, safeguarding measures, PVG checks, and Care Inspectorate registration if required.
- Organisations demonstrating effective governance, financial management, and a bank account with at least two signatories.
- Staff paid at least the Real Living Wage, if applicable.
Applicants must either directly support carers or collaborate with a partner organisation that does. Consultation with unpaid carers during project planning is expected.
Ineligible applicants:
- Organisations without appropriate registrations, safeguarding, or governance.
- Organisations not operating in Scotland or without a charitable purpose.
Grant Details
- Total funding available: Approximately £1,600,000.
- Grant size:
- Incorporated organisations: up to £35,000
- Unincorporated organisations: up to £10,000
- Purpose: Support short breaks and activities for carers and the people they care for.
How to Apply / How It Works
- Prepare your application: Demonstrate the project’s impact on carers’ wellbeing and include evidence of consultation with carers.
- Submit the application: Ensure compliance with all organisational and safeguarding requirements.
- Assessment: Applications evaluated based on quality, feasibility, community benefit, and alignment with programme objectives.
- Grant allocation: Successful organisations receive funding to implement short break activities.
- Project delivery: Deliver meaningful respite experiences, monitor outcomes, and report on impact.
Best Practices & Tips
- Include evidence of carer consultation to ensure projects meet real needs.
- Clearly outline how the project enhances wellbeing and reduces social isolation.
- Demonstrate strong governance, safeguarding, and financial controls.
- Consider partnerships to reach more carers or expand service offerings.
- Plan activities that provide both carers and care recipients with enjoyable, supportive experiences.
Why It Matters
Creative Breaks funding helps unpaid carers access vital respite and supportive experiences, enhancing their wellbeing and quality of life. Projects also strengthen community support networks and provide positive shared experiences for carers and the people they care for.
FAQs
1. Who can apply?
Third sector organisations in Scotland that are OSCR-registered charities or constituted charitable organisations.
2. What is the maximum grant available?
- Incorporated organisations: £35,000
- Unincorporated organisations: £10,000
3. Who benefits from these projects?
Unpaid carers of adults, young carers, and the people they care for.
4. Are partnerships allowed?
Yes, organisations can partner with others to deliver activities for carers.
5. What compliance measures are required?
PVG checks, safeguarding policies, Care Inspectorate registration if required, and effective governance.
6. Is consultation with carers required?
Yes, applicants should demonstrate evidence of consultation with unpaid carers when preparing the project.
7. What are the intended outcomes?
Enhanced wellbeing, strengthened support networks, and meaningful short break experiences for carers and care recipients.
Conclusion
Creative Breaks funding enables Scottish third sector organisations to deliver high-impact short break projects for unpaid carers and the people they care for. By supporting wellbeing, fostering community connections, and providing meaningful respite, the programme improves quality of life and strengthens local carer support networks.
For more information, visit Dundee Volunteer and Voluntary Action.
