Supporting Change - Carers

This funding is for projects that will improve the health of unpaid carers.

We will do this by supporting work that both:

• reduces the unfair and avoidable differences in health for unpaid carers (these are called health inequalities)
• addresses the root cause of the long-term problems, not just the symptoms (this is called systems change)

We will not fund service delivery projects such as advocacy, peer support, and welfare rights advice. For these types of projects, see other funding available in Scotland .

What we mean by unpaid carers

By unpaid carers we mean adults or children who look after a relative, friend or neighbour. They might look after someone due to a disability, illness, mental health condition or addiction. 
 
We know that many people do not see themselves as unpaid carers. We're particularly interested in projects that reach these people. 

Your project must meet at least one of our priorities 

Your project must reduce health inequalities by working towards systems change. It should aim to:  

• support carers during changes in their role  
• make it easier to identify and support carers  
• improve support for carers who face extra barriers  
• change how care is understood and valued

For more detail, see our funding priorities. 

How much you can apply for 

Most projects we fund will: 

• get between £500,000 and £2 million 
• run for between 5 and 10 years 

We expect to fund 4 to 5 projects in this round. 

You can apply for development funding 

You can apply for up to £50,000 to: 

• plan and run research 
• hold consultations 
• develop partnerships 

After you’ve spent this money, you can apply for up to £1,950,000 to run your project.  

You must apply by 15 July 2026 

This is a 2-stage application process. We need your stage 1 application by 15 July 2026. 

Find out how to apply.