5 ways to save money as a carer

5 Ways to Save Money as a Carer

Caring for someone - whether as a professional or unpaid carer - can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also put pressure on your finances. Although 61% of carers feel stressed or anxious about their financial situation (according to Carers UK's State of Caring report from 2024), the good news is that there are many ways to ease the financial strain. Here are five practical strategies to help you save money and reduce stress in order to continue providing the best possible care.

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1. Make the Most of Government Benefits

Many carers are entitled to Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment (Scotland). Even if your earnings mean you don’t qualify for these payments, you may still be eligible for Carer’s Credit to help protect your National Insurance record and State Pension.

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If you live with the person you care for, you might also qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant to help adapt your home, or a Council Tax Disability Reduction if your home has been adapted.

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In emergencies, check whether your local council has a welfare assistance scheme. In Wales, this is the Discretionary Assistance Fund, in Scotland the Scottish Welfare Fund, and in Northern Ireland Discretionary Support (a mix of grants and loans). Some schemes may be means-tested and do not apply exclusively to carers, but can provide valuable financial support.

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2. Speak to Energy Providers for Better Deals

Contact your energy, broadband and mobile suppliers to ask about social tariffs or reduced rates for vulnerable customers. Even if you aren't eligible, there may be a cheaper tariff you can move on to that better fits your needs.

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Equally, shopping around can help you save money on those essential bills - consider using a comparison website to find the best rates.

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3. Apply for Grants

Many charities and trusts offer grants to carers and disabled people. This might be for your general household needs, or grants might be offered with a specific home adaptation or mobility aid purchase in mind.

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The Turn2us Grants Search is an excellent place to start - just enter your details to find out what you might be eligible for.

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4. Get Shopping Discounts with National Carers Card

Professional and unpaid carers are eligible to apply for the National Carers Card. While the primary purpose of the card is to show others that you are a carer and get recognition and support in a variety of everyday situations, card holders also benefit from hundreds of online shopping discounts from brands that partner with the scheme - including on supermarkets and coffee shops, high street fashion and beauty, and even mobility and health aids for the person you care for. Apply today and start saving on everyday essentials.

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5. Access Free Wellbeing Support

A growing proportion of carers report having bad or very bad mental health - the proportion jumped from 27% to over a third at 35% within a year (from Carers UK's State of Caring (Mental Health & Social Care) report 2025. Here are some excellent free options to get you started on looking after your mental health as a carer:

• Carers UK’s online wellbeing sessions - activities include mindfulness, exercise and yoga.
• Carers First Virtual Wellbeing Programme - Monthly sessions to manage stress and build resilience.
• Carers UK's online meetups with other carers - share a cuppa and find community

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