Support for Adult Carers
Being an unpaid carer can sometimes be a challenging and lonely journey. At PKAVS, we are beside you throughout your journey. We are here to support you with information and advice on practical issues, emotional and social support, and the chance to take a break and just be yourself.
Do You Qualify?
Are you over 18?
If you are over 18 and spend time caring for someone close to you, PKAVS can provide a wealth of resources to help you cope.
Under 18?
We can help you too! Check out our young carers section.
Do you spend time caring for someone close to you?
Does a partner, parent, child, family member, friend or neighbour who relies on your help live with one or more of the following conditions:
- Long-term condition or disability
- Elderly or frail
- Physical health condition
- Mental health condition
- Additional needs
- Problematic drug or alcohol use
If you can answer yes to both questions, you are an unpaid carer!
How we can help
Support is shaped around each individual’s needs and includes:
Short breaks for carers
You can apply to us for funding to help support a short break of your choosing. This could be anything from garden furniture to a spa break, sports equipment to a weekend away. The choice is yours. Get in touch to find out more.
Connecting you
PKAVS works with a wide variety of local and national partners and are well placed to point you in the right direction for additional help or support for you or your family.
Group trips and activities
Enjoy some social time and some time away from your caring role and meet others who may be facing the same challenges as you. It's a great way to relax and find yourself again!
Practical support
Are you feeling overwhelmed by paperwork, processes, or making important decisions about care? Our expert staff are on hand to help guide the way!
Emotional support
Our friendly staff are on-hand to offer support at times when you need it the most. Get in touch to see how we can help.
Training on topics like dementia and carers’ rights
Training sessions give carers the chance to learn more about key topics like dementia and carers’ rights. These sessions are especially valuable for building confidence and helping carers feel better equipped in their caring role.
Day Club
PKAVS offers a fantastic day club where the person you care for can come along and enjoy a bit of social time allowing you some well deserved time to yourself.
I now feel that with a wider friendship base I’m able to shake off those bad times and get more enjoyment out of life
Let's get you started...
You can refer yourself (or someone else as long as you have their consent) to PKAVS Carers Centre. We also welcome referrals from professionals working with carers.
Use the form below to tell us about your situation and request support.
Please note: this form is for new carer referrals only.
Once we receive your referral, one of our friendly team will contact you to discuss your caring journey and how we can support you.
Is the person you care for in hospital?
If so we can support you through what can be a confusing and emotional time. Our Hospital Link Worker is here to help and support you. Contact us at carershubadmin@pkavs.org.uk or call us on 01738 567076 for more information.
Short Breaks for Carers
Looking after someone else can take a lot out of you. That’s why we offer short breaks to give carers time for themselves. To relax, recharge or simply do something they enjoy. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon, a treat, or a night away, even a small break can make a big difference. Explore the options and see what might work for you.
Self-Directed Support
Self-Directed Support gives people choice and control over how their social care is arranged. We help unpaid carers in Perth and Kinross understand what support is available and how to access it.
Frequently asked questions
What is an unpaid carer?
If you regularly support someone close to you who couldn’t manage without your help, you’re likely an unpaid carer. This could be a partner, parent, child, friend or neighbour living with: Frailty, A long-term condition or disability, A physical or mental health condition, Drug or alcohol dependency, Additional support needs
What kind of support does PKAVS offer to carers?
We’re here to support you with:
Information and advice on your caring role
Emotional and social support
A chance to take a break and just be yourself
Learning and training opportunities
Help during key transitions, like hospital stays
How do I get support from PKAVS?
You can refer yourself using our short online form, or someone else can refer you (with your permission). We also accept referrals from professionals like social workers or GPs. Make a Referral
If you have a general question, you can email us at carershubadmin@pkavs.org.uk or call 01738 567076.
I’m a young carer. Can you help me too?
Yes. We support young carers with one-to-one help, group activities, and chances to connect with others in similar situations.
The person I care for is in hospital. Can you support me during this time?
Absolutely. Our Hospital Link Worker is here to help you navigate what can be a stressful and confusing time. Contact us at carershubadmin@pkavs.org.uk or call 01738 567076 to speak with us.
Can I take a break from caring?
Yes. We offer access to short breaks so you can rest, recharge, or simply have time for yourself. Get in touch to find out what options are available to you.
Are there learning or training opportunities for carers?
Yes. We run sessions to help you gain new skills, build confidence, and understand your rights as a carer.
Get in touch
PKAVS Carers Centre, Lewis Place, North Muirton, Perth PH1 3BD