More than 365 breaks, over 700 people supported and a national Carers UK Awards shortlist mark the first year of The Caring Kind Project.

The Caring Kind Project is celebrating its first anniversary on 15 September after providing more than 365 breaks and supporting over 700 unpaid carers and their families across West Yorkshire – equivalent to a break for every day of its first year.

Launched in September 2025, the project turns the generosity and available capacity of local businesses into much-needed breaks for unpaid carers who are struggling with their wellbeing or at risk of burnout.

Its growing community of Giving Partners contribute experiences and services they already have – including meals, hotel stays, days out, wellbeing experiences and tickets to attractions and events – which are then matched with unpaid carers across Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Kirklees and Calderdale.

First year receives national recognition

The anniversary celebrations come as The Caring Kind Project has been shortlisted for the Carers UK Awards 2026 in the Standout Campaign for Carers category, giving the West Yorkshire initiative national recognition in its very first year.

The nomination recognises the project’s work to champion unpaid carers and mobilise businesses and communities to support them through a collaborative model spanning the voluntary sector, local businesses and communities.

Gemma Povey, Project Manager for The Caring Kind Project, said:

“What makes this first year so special is that these 365 breaks haven’t come from one big organisation or one big donation. They’ve come from a growing community of businesses and individuals choosing to do something positive for unpaid carers in their local communities. Our Giving Partners turn their generosity and available capacity into lifelines – whether that’s a hotel stay, a meal, event tickets or a wellbeing experience. Together, these small contributions make a huge offer that’s supported more than 700 people in just one year. To see that community approach now recognised nationally by the Carers UK Awards is something we can all be incredibly proud of.”

Unpaid carers provide essential support to family members and friends who could not manage without their help because of illness, disability, a mental health condition or addiction. While caring can be hugely rewarding, the demands of the role can also take a significant toll on a carer’s wellbeing. Even a few hours away can offer valuable time to rest, reconnect or simply do something for themselves.

Claire Turner, Chief Executive of Carers Leeds, said:

“Unpaid carers make an enormous contribution to our communities, but too often their own wellbeing comes second. The Caring Kind Project has become a valued resource for carers across West Yorkshire, providing opportunities to step away from the caring routine and take time for themselves. It also demonstrates what can be achieved when the voluntary sector and local businesses work together differently.”

The next chapter: get involved

As The Caring Kind Project enters its second year, it is calling on more businesses, venues, attractions and individuals across West Yorkshire to join its growing Caring Kind Community.

Businesses do not need to make large financial donations. They can contribute something they already have – an experience, service, ticket, table, room or other available capacity that might otherwise go unused – and the project takes care of matching it with an unpaid carer who would benefit.

One carer said:

“The break was wonderful. It was so peaceful and tranquil that everything just melted away. It felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders for those two days. I was worried about going away, but the world didn’t fall apart at home. It made me realise that I can take a bit of time for myself.”

Businesses and individuals interested in becoming part of The Caring Kind Community can visit https://www.thecaringkindproject.org.uk or contact [email protected] to find out how to get involved.

 

The Caring Kind Project is a West Yorkshire initiative supporting unpaid carers by connecting them with breaks, experiences and services donated by local businesses and individuals. It launched its service in September 2025 and works across Leeds, Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield.

First-year highlights: 365+ breaks provided; 700+ unpaid carers and family members supported; and shortlisted for the Carers UK Awards 2026 – Standout Campaign for Carers.

The Caring Kind Project is a project managed by Carers Leeds, a registered charity (#1058706) and a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales (#3242065).

Enquiries: Gemma Povey, Project Manager, The Caring Kind Project | [email protected] | 07365 251023