South Lakeland Carers

Who we are

"South Lakeland Carers enables carers to manage their caring roles to their own satisfaction by providing a quality service of information, support and advocacy."

South Lakeland Carers (SLC) is an independent charity and network partner of Carers Trust, providing a range of services to support and enhance the lives of unpaid carers of all ages throughout South Lakeland.  2017 marks the 25th anniversary of SLC. In the beginning, SLC provided support to 15 carers. During the intervening period, the organisation has evolved so that today it is supporting 1,300 carers aged from 6 to 98.  

Over the years, the organisation developed a range of services to support carers.

• 2001 saw the introduction of a carer’s right to an independent assessment of their needs and the organisation was contracted by Cumbria County Council to provide these assessments.
• 2004 saw the start of a Young Carers project.
• In 2005 a full-time Carers Support Worker was employed to liaise with Social Work teams in the area and raise awareness of the needs of carers and their right to an independent assessment.
• 2008 saw the appointment of a Volunteer Development Worker, which has helped to build, maintain and develop a team of volunteers to support our work with carers.
• In 2011 Cumbria NHS funding enabled the appointment of a GP Carers Support Worker liaising with GP Practices in South Lakeland.
• In 2013 Lloyds TSB and Northern Rock provided funding for a Young Adult Carer Support Worker post. 

We are proud of the many achievements made by South Lakeland Carers since it was registered as a charity and due to the dedication and hard work of our staff and many volunteers. Our continued success depends on the contribution and expertise of every individual we employ and work with.