Being an unpaid carer can sometimes be a challenging and lonely journey.
At VOCAL, we are beside you throughout your journey. We are here to support you with information and advice on practical issues, emotional and social support, and the chance to take a break and just be yourself.
Do you spend time caring for someone close to you?
If a partner, parent, child, family member, friend or neighbour who relies on your help is living with…
- Frailty
- Long-term condition or disability
- Physical health condition
- Mental health condition
- Additional needs
- Drug or alcohol dependency
…then you’re definitely an unpaid carer!
How VOCAL can help
Our services
Find out more about our tailored services for unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian.
Finance
Taking on a caring role can impact your financial situation in many ways. VOCAL can support you to maximise your income and feel more confident about your finances.
Wellbeing
As a carer, you may focus a lot of your time and energy on the person you care for. But it’s important that you also look after yourself.

Take a break from caring
VOCAL’s Wee Breaks service supports unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian to take time to breathe, recharge and think about themselves for an hour, a day or longer.
Carer News
Dementia Awareness Week: 2 – 8 June
Monday 2 to Sunday 8 June is Dementia Awareness Week in Scotland. At VOCAL, we are here to support you if you care for someone …
VOCAL 100 Club – May 2025 Results
The VOCAL 100 club is our monthly lottery which raises money for carer support and pays out half of the fund in cash prizes. This …
Midlothian Carers Survey 2023 results
Every two years, VOCAL runs a survey – funded by Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnership (MHSCP) with research conducted by independent agency, Scotinform – …