Do you look after someone who needs help and support due to an illness, disability, mental health problem, or substance misuse? If they could not manage without your support, and you’re not employed to do this, then you are a carer.
The advantage of our information and support is that we are a local based organisation. We have an in-depth understanding of the people of Aberdeenshire and take a localised approach to all our information and carers services.
We are also network partners with the National Carers Organisations, Carers Trust and Coalition of Carers which keeps us briefed with all matters relating to unpaid carers.
Following our first successful trip to Cullen with some of our carers in June, funded by Shared Care Scotland's Short Break Fund, we are happy to offer places for the following trip:
Wednesday 17th September: Coach Trip to Montrose
Pick-up point 1, Kingswells Park & Ride 9:30am,
Pick-up point 2 Newtonhill Park & Ride, time tbc
There will be some free time to explore the area, get a coffee/tea etc, plus
there will be a mini afternoon tea at approx. 2:00pm (venue to be confirmed)
before heading back to drop off points at approximately 4:15pm.
This trip is free of charge and open to adult/parent registered Carers and their “cared for” or a friend/relative can accompany if wished instead, however no children under the age of 16yrs. The coach has a toilet, and floors which are lower for access, however, there are steps with handrails for support into the coach. Assistance and support will be given to anyone having difficulties getting onboard. They can also accommodate Rollators etc in the luggage compartments if required.
To secure your place and for more detailed information, on pick up/drop off times please contact your Carer Advisor or contact Pam McCready - pamela.mccready@vsa.org.uk with your name and dietary requirements and those of your Cared for or Companion and they will be happy to help or telephone Aberdeenshire Carers Service 01224 727670.
These trips are free of charge and open to adult/parent registered Carers and their “cared for” or a friend/relative can accompany if wished instead, however no children under the age of 16yrs.
Do you know of someone who is a carer or are you a carer that needs support?
If you are a young or adult carer or referring a young or adult carer, please follow the link below to complete our online form.
Updated Thurs May 29th 2025
Time to Live (TTL) is a funding programme that provides microgrants to unpaid carers so that they can take a vital break from their caring role - this can take the form of:
Whatever you deem as a break for you - TTL can provide this support.
VSA are working with Shared Care Scotland as their delivery partner, with funding being provided by the Scottish Government.
To be eligible for Time to Live funding you must be:
The TTL Creative Break funding for 2025/2026 is now OPEN. Please submit your application using the APPLY HERE button below.
Please note: Re-applying is only eligible after 12 months from the date you previously received funding.
Carefree is a multi-award-winning digital charity with a mission to offer every full-time unpaid carer in the UK the chance of an annual short break.
Breaks consist of 1-2 night hotel stays, plus breakfast at the cost of a £33 admin fee. To be eligible, you must be 18+ and a full-time unpaid carer (30+ hours per week).
Please note: The break is for the carer only. You are welcome to take a companion but not the person(s) you care for. Carers may book up to one break per calendar year ie. Re-applying is only eligible in the calendar year after you previously received funding.
Request a referral by completing our form HERE. Alternatively, you can find out more by contacting: carers.shire@vsa.org.uk or pamela.mccready@vsa.org.uk
(This section was updated 02/09/25)
Each month, we will provide details of forthcoming events from groups around Aberdeenshire.
A range of resources and information for anyone who has an unpaid caring role.
Summer 2025 Newsletter now available!
Our carer magazine, where you can find out what activities we have upcoming and also read stories from fellow carers.
National charity Family Fund provides a wide range of grants to families living in Scotland raising a disabled or seriously ill child, or young person, on a low income.
You could be eligible to apply for items such as a washing machine, fridge or oven; a piece of furniture including beds and bedding, sensory or play equipment, technology like an iPad or tablet or a family break.
This support could make a big difference to your child and family.