Introducing the CARES Project: Supporting Carers to access meaningful Respite

At Sutton Carers Centre, we are continually looking for ways to better support Carers in our community. We are therefore pleased to introduce the Pilot Carers Access to Respite and Extending Support (CARES) Project, delivered in partnership with the London Borough of Sutton (LBS).

This exciting new initiative has been designed with one clear goal: to help Carers overcome the barriers that often prevent them from accessing much-needed respite.

Beneficial respite is different

Understanding the challenges Carers face

We know from our experience of working closely with Carers that taking a break is not always straightforward. Many Carers face significant challenges, such as:

• The difficulty of finding suitable replacement care

• Feelings of guilt about stepping away from their caring role

• A lack of awareness of available respite options

• Complex personal circumstances that make traditional respite difficult

  
  

The CARES Project is built around this understanding. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, it focuses on tailored, flexible support that reflects each Carer’s unique situation.

How the CARES Project will work

Our experienced Information & Advice Worker, Nick, will lead the project to:

• Explore a range of respite options available within the Borough

• Work directly with Carers to identify what type of support would best suit their needs

• Help Carers gradually build confidence in accessing respite opportunities

• Develop activities and support options based at Sutton Carers Centre

• Compile Personalised Respite Plans, alongside insights and case-studies to help the Council's understanding of how best to support Carers with respite opportunities going forward.

  
  

This personalised approach will try to ensure that respite is not just available, but accessible, appropriate, and achievable.

Activities and support at Sutton Carers Centre

As part of the CARES Project, Carers will also have the opportunity to engage in supportive, low-pressure activities at the Centre.

These will include:

• Gentle yoga sessions to support relaxation and wellbeing

• Chair-based exercise classes for accessible physical activity

• Lone Carers groups offering connection and understanding

• A range of Peer Support Groups to reduce isolation and share experiences

These options provide flexible and approachable ways for Carers to begin taking time for themselves, even if longer periods of respite feel difficult.

Referrals and access

Most Carers participating in the CARES Project will be referred through LBS Adult Social Services. However, all Carers registered with Sutton Carers Centre benefit from our local knowledge and strong community links that allow us to:

• Connect Carers to existing SCC services and activities

• Highlight respite opportunities within Sutton

• Provide ongoing, personalised information, advice and support throughout the journey of accessing respite

  
  

A more flexible, person-centred approach

What makes the CARES Project different is its focus on the individual needs of each Carer. We recognise that no two caring roles are the same, and this project gives us the opportunity to:

• Listen more closely to Carers’ experiences

• Adapt support to fit real-life circumstances

• Develop new approaches to respite that truly work for our community

  
  

Moving forward together

The CARES Project represents an important step forward in how we support Carers in Sutton. By working in partnership with LBS and building on our own experience, we aim to ensure that more Carers can access the breaks they need to maintain their wellbeing.

Visit our new Respite page and if you would like to find out more about the CARES Project or other support available, please get in touch with Sutton Carers Centre. We are here to help you explore options that work for you.