We are really proud of the achievements of our Listening Support Service, and to have been able to provide a lifeline for many carers during some challenging years.
Sadly, due to funding coming to an end and in light of the challenging financial landscape, we have taken the difficult decision to close the Listening Support Service.
We thank our committed volunteers and generous supporters for all they have done to enable us to provide emotional listening support for carers.
We understand that the closure of the service will be disappointing to many carers. If you need someone to talk to, we have information on other organisations who can provide emotional support:
- Samaritans, who are available 24/7 for anybody who needs a listening ear. They can be telephoned on 116 123 or emailed on jo@samaritans.org
- Shout, a text-based service for when you’re struggling to cope and need to talk, available 24/7. Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258.
- Hub of Hope – This national database brings together local community and charity groups and services, as well as local NHS services, which can support your mental wellbeing.
- For carers in Wales, C.A.L.L. can provide emotional support in both English and Welsh. They are available 24/7 by telephoning 0800 132 737 or by texting ‘help’ to 81066
Your local carer’s centre may also be able to talk to you about what emotional and mental health support is available in your area. Search our directory.
If you are concerned about your mental and emotional wellbeing, you can discuss this with your GP. It is also possible to access Talking Therapies via the NHS.
More details of Carers UK support and services can be found on our support for carers page. You can also speak to other carers and find mutual support at our weekly Care for a Cuppa chats on Zoom.
Latest updates

Carers UK responds to DWP announcement of aim to tackle all Carer’s Allowance overpayment alerts
Carers UK responds to Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) announcement that it will aim to tackle all Carer's Allowance…

Carer Poverty Coalition responds to Government's welfare reform Green Paper
It's extremely worrying that some measures within the Green Paper on Welfare Reform changing disability and health benefits will actively…

Carers UK celebrates Investing in Volunteers award
Carers UK is delighted to have achieved the UK-wide quality mark for organisations involving volunteers during the charity’s 60th anniversary…

New rise in Carer Support Payment in Scotland earnings limit will increase financial security for carers on a low income
Carers Scotland press release on the increase in earnings threshold for Carer Support Payment in 2025.
Got a question about caring?
Every day we hear from people who need help with looking after a friend or family member
Become a member for free
Joining Carers UK is free and takes just a few minutes.