Carers in Bedfordshire

Who we are

Carers in Bedfordshire is an independent local charity established 15 years ago to respond to the needs of unpaid family carers of all ages in Bedfordshire.

From small beginnings, we now have over 8,500 clients registered with us who live across the counties of Bedfordshire and Luton. We operate from five sites, and offer a range of services including:

• hospital based support for carers – we have offices in the Bedford and Luton & Dunstable Hospitals

• a wellbeing grant scheme for carers, which we administer on behalf of the NHS

• a dedicated service for parent carers looking after a young person with an illness or additional need

• a specific programme of support for people living with memory loss or dementia and carers, including a ‘first point of access’ phone service: the Memory Navigation service delivered in partnership with the East London Foundation Trust (ELFT)

• a bespoke programme for young and young adult carers including clubs and events, as well as focused one-to-one support to help young carers address identified challenges

• a range of group activities, including monthly Carers Cafes, as well as over 35 groups where carers meet and support each other

• a young carer peer mentoring scheme, in partnership with local schools, funded by Children in Need

• a regular programme of training and learning, including power of attorney, mindfulness, stress management

• a discount card scheme for carers in partnership with local businesses

Our services regularly receive positive feedback from carers: “Such a brilliant service you offer, it makes me feel not alone with my problems and I am sure many of the other people you help feel the same too.”

During a period of rapid growth over recent years, we have secured two key service delivery contracts, a number of large multi-year grants, and are developing income from a wide range of sources, including from a growing number of generous donors. As well as our qualified team of 44 staff, including social and support workers, health professionals, children’s and young people’s workers, we have a team of over 100 volunteers, working across all areas of the organisation. Our turnover is £1.2m per annum.

We are a sensitive and flexible employer. We understand that staff juggle their employment with other family and personal commitments and can offer flexible terms to allow our team members to be effective, productive and happy both in work and out.