THE growing number of unpaid carers across Ilkley are to share in £200,000 pot of grants designed to promote their own health and well-being.

Launched on Monday, the Carers’ Small Grant scheme encourages carers to apply for up to £200 to give them a well-earned change from the relentless day-to-day pressures of looking after a loved one.

Money can be spent on a small break, taking up a pastime or hobby, or enabling carers to do something they had always wanted but never had the opportunity - such as learning a new skill.

The initiative is funded by Bradford District Council with additional support from the three local NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups, and is being coordinated by the Shipley-based charity, the Carers’ Resource.

Last year, more than 1,003 carers shared a pot of money totalling £197,115.80.

The money benefited carers in a variety of ways, including funding an Ilkley mum’s gym membership to improve her lifestyle.

Applications can be made by anyone within Bradford District who cares for a family member, relative, friend or neighbour suffering with a physical or mental health problem, drug or alcohol addiction, or simply due to frailty and old age.

Preference will be given to carers who have not received a Carers’ Small Grant within the past 12 months. The grants – which are not means-tested - cannot be used to pay for services, aids or adaptations for the cared-for person.

Carers have until December 19 to submit their application form, which can be obtained by emailing smallgrant@carersresource.org or by calling a dedicated answering machine on 01274 965883.