Purpose

ASC currently provides grant funding to voluntary and community sector organisations that support unpaid carers aged 18 and over. The grants expire in March 2027. It is proposed that the grants are extended to support delivery of the All-Age Carers Strategy (AACS), completion of the co-produced action plan and consideration of future commissioning options, including joint commissioning opportunities with Children's Social Care and South Gloucestershire Council. The extension will provide continuity for carers while ensuring future arrangements are informed by evidence, engagement and emerging strategic priorities. The proposal includes a budgeted inflationary uplift funded from existing carers budgets

Decision

To extend the existing grant agreements for 15 months, until 30th June 2028.

Alternative options considered

Option 1: Do Not Extend Current Grants
Rejected. This option could disrupt support for carers, particularly those from diverse communities, and reduce the involvement of grant-funded organisations in delivering the All-Age Carers Strategy (AACS). Extending the grants provides continuity of support while the AACS Action Plan is implemented and future commissioning arrangements are developed.