More than 25 unpaid carers have received face-to-face guidance on benefits, care costs and protecting their finances at a free support session in Lichfield.

The Care Club event was held at The Cathedral Hotel on Monday, 21 September, and was organised by social enterprise Grace Cares in response to questions raised by carers across the district.

The morning session covered Carer's Allowance and other benefits, Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payment, as well as managing on a reduced income, protecting savings and the family home, understanding care costs, Power of Attorney and wills.

Carers were also able to ask about funding for equipment, home adaptations and respite care.

Questions answered face to face

John Moore, of Fruition Accountancy, chaired a panel which also included Greg Palethorpe, of Bowbrook Financial Planners, and Ashley Reeves, of Four Oaks Financial Services.

The panel answered questions from the room and others submitted anonymously before the event. The advisers then stayed for individual conversations over tea and coffee.

Grace Cares said financial and legal support had consistently been among the subjects most requested through feedback at its Care Club sessions and annual survey.

Carers tell us money is one of the biggest worries they carry, and often the one they're least likely to ask about.

Hannah Montgomery, co-founder of Grace Cares, said the session was intended to give people clear next steps and help them understand who they could contact for further support.

She said: "There are around 5.7 million unpaid carers in the UK, saving the economy an estimated £184 billion a year, yet many are missing out on support. Today was about changing that. Seeing people leave with clear next steps, and knowing who to call, is exactly why Care Club exists."

Mr Moore said people caring for a loved one often put their own financial wellbeing last, while money worries can become overwhelming alongside the emotional and practical pressures of caring.

He added: "My message is simple: don't struggle in silence, ask questions, understand what support is available and seek advice as early as possible."

Online follow-up session in October

Carers who could not attend in person will be able to join an online version of the financial panel on Wednesday, 21 October, from 9.30am until 10.15am.

Registration is available through the Grace Cares online Care Club page.

Information about future face-to-face sessions is available on the Grace Cares website. Carers can also contact the organisation at hello@grace-cares.com or on 01543 730189.

This report is based on information and photographs supplied by Grace Cares.