Discounts for Carers: A Complete Guide to Exclusive Offers and Discounts

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What Discounts Are Available for Carers?

There are many discounts and benefits available to carers across the UK. Whether you’re a family member caring for a loved one or a professional carer, there are plenty of opportunities to save money and enjoy some well-earned perks.

Money-Saving Deals and Everyday Discounts for Carers

Several websites provide a wide range of discounts for carers in the UK. These platforms make it easy for carers to access deals on everything from fashion to utilities.

Discounts for Carers

One of the most popular sites is Discounts for Carers, which offers a broad range of discounts across various brands and services. This platform caters to all types of carers, including live-in carers, family carers, and care assistants. Some of the deals you’ll find include:

• Discounts on homeware and appliances
• Mobile phone plans
• Savings on utilities and broadband
• Cheaper insurance options
• Reduced gym memberships
• Travel and holiday deals
• Discounts on fashion brands

It’s free and easy to sign up for Discounts for Carers, allowing you to save on everyday essentials and more.

CarerSmart

Another great resource for discounts for carers is CarerSmart, a discount club run by the Carers Trust. Membership gives carers access to:

• Reduced insurance rates
• Free legal advice
• Discounts on energy bills
• Reduced prices on holidays and travel
• Cashback offers from high-street retailers
• Cheaper leisure activities

Like Discounts for Carers, it’s free to join CarerSmart and gain access to a variety of money-saving opportunities.

Carer Friendly Card

The Carer Friendly Card is a photo ID card that provides access to exclusive discounts for carers at both local and national businesses. Benefits of having this card include:

• Proving your carer status when needed
• Access to the Carer Friendly Community and online support
• Discounts from high street and online stores

The card costs £15 for two years, or you can buy a bundle for £25, which includes a lanyard and cardholder. You’ll also receive a free digital version.

Free and Discounted Days Out for Carers

In addition to discounts for carers, there are many free and discounted days out available across the UK. These include fun activities for carers and those they care for, ranging from cinema trips to theme parks.

Cinema Tickets

The CEA (Cinema Exhibitor’s Association) Card allows someone with a disability to take their carer to the cinema for free. This scheme is widely accepted across UK cinemas, making it easier for carers to enjoy a day out with the person they care for.

Theatre Tickets

Many theatres offer discounts for carers, including free tickets for carers and their companions. While there isn’t a universal scheme, you can contact theatres directly to find out what carer discounts they offer.

Theme Parks

Many UK theme parks offer free or discounted entry for carers. Some popular theme parks where carers can enjoy free or reduced tickets include:

• Chessington
• Blackpool Pleasure Beach
• LEGOLAND
• Thorpe Park
• Alton Towers
• Drayton Manor

These parks also often provide fast-track access for carers and those with disabilities.

Merlin Attractions

Merlin Group attractions, such as Chessington, LEGOLAND, Thorpe Park, and Alton Towers, all offer free tickets for carers. This extends to Merlin Annual Pass holders, where carers can claim a free pass for unlimited access to over 30 UK attractions, including the London Eye and SEA LIFE centres.

Animal Attractions

Zoos, safari parks, and aquariums across the UK offer free or discounted entry for carers. For example:

• Chester Zoo
• London Zoo
• Edinburgh Zoo
• Paignton Zoo
• Twycross Zoo
• Woburn Safari Park
• National Marine Aquarium

These attractions often require proof of carer status, so be sure to bring relevant documentation.

Football Matches and Sports Events

Many football clubs and other sports venues offer free entry for carers attending with the person they care for. Contact your local football club to ask about discounts for carers or check their website for accessibility information.

Additional Support and Discounts for Carers

Beyond days out and shopping, carers in the UK are eligible for various types of support and financial assistance.

Council Tax Discounts

Carers may be eligible for Council Tax reductions if they provide more than 35 hours of care each week. The person being cared for must meet certain criteria, such as receiving specific disability benefits. Contact your local council to find out how to apply.

Energy Bill Support

Carers can explore several options for reducing energy bills, including:

• Being added to the Priority Services Register
• Accessing the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme for home insulation
• Checking eligibility for Council Tax rebates

Motability Scheme

If the person you care for receives mobility-related benefits, they can use the Motability Scheme to lease a vehicle. This includes cars, powered wheelchairs, and scooters. Carers can often use the scheme on behalf of the person they care for.

Blue Badge Parking

The Blue Badge scheme allows carers and people with mobility issues to park closer to their destination. It’s available to carers if the person they care for has difficulty walking.

Disabled Persons Railcard

A Disabled Persons Railcard offers a 1/3 discount on rail travel for the person being cared for, and the carer can travel with them at the same reduced rate.

Carer Benefits

Carers may also be eligible for additional benefits, including:

• Carer’s Allowance
• Carer’s Credit
• Carer Premium
• Universal Credit
• Pension Credit

Conclusion: Unlock the Best Discounts for Carers Today

Carers in the UK have access to a wide range of discounts and support, helping to ease the financial burden and provide enjoyable experiences. From free days out at zoos and theme parks to exclusive deals on everyday essentials, there are countless discounts for carers that can make a big difference.

Make sure to take advantage of these offers and explore the full range of support available to you. Whether it’s reducing your energy bills, accessing free days out, or enjoying discounts at your favourite shops, carers deserve to be recognised and supported for their incredible work.

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