Wall of Love

The break came at just the right time as I had reached a low point. The two night stay in London allowed me to rediscover my identity, my friend and I thoroughly enjoyed visiting places of interest and having fun.... It's been a while! The St Giles Hotel were brilliant, I received a special welcome and they had upgraded us to receive breakfast during our stay. It was perfect, thanks.

Firstly I’d like to thank you. I can’t believe what an amazing time we had from start to finish. We are so grateful for the opportunity that you have given us. We stayed at St Giles in London, it was a central hotel. We couldn’t believe our luck! It really made me and my husband connect again and enjoy each other’s company and not have to worry about anything or anyone else for a couple of days. We honestly cannot thank you enough, this weekend I meant the world to us.❤️

The break really helped me to refocus on myself and my needs. I felt like a person again. My mind needed the break. The hotel were fab and upgraded me to free breakfast really was touched thank you for this help

It made such a difference to take a break just for me rather than for other reasons to help everyone else. I felt great until I was on the train home and all the demands started on me again. The hotel was great and gave me a lovely handwritten welcome and a very unexpected and welcome free breakfast. A big thank you to everyone.

It was just great to get away from the burden of responsibility and constant stress. Just myself to think about in all respects. It’s lovely that hotels appreciate the carer role and offer their rooms. It’s really appreciated.

Really lovely break which was well needed, the hotel was very accommodating and even gave us complimentary breakfast for being on a carers break.

The hotel was great - even gave me an upgrade and a small gift to say thank you for being a carer. It made me feel very valued and meant a lot.

My break meant a lot to me, and I’m truly grateful to Carefree for making it possible. As a full-time carer, it’s not often that I get the chance to rest, so this stay really helped me recharge both mentally and emotionally. The hotel was relaxing, comfortable, and the staff were incredibly kind — they even treated my son and me to breakfast, which made us feel so special. It gave me the space to breathe, clear my mind, and take some weight off my shoulders. I left feeling refreshed, grateful, and ready to take on daily life again with a bit more calm and energy. My only small comment would be that although Carefree offers two-night breaks, it seems most hotels only accommodate one night at a time — which is a shame, because the experience was so wonderful I would’ve loved to stay for the full two nights. Thank you again to Carefree and the hotel for giving us this lovely opportunity. It truly made a difference.

The hotel was perfect and the little note and bag they left me made me cry (in a good way!) Thank you - and also for the breakfast upgrade. Fabulous location and a great break!

I didn't realise how much I needed a break until I took this trip to London and stayed at St Giles Hotel. Everything was near by, I was able to enjoy the galleries and museums which I haven't been able to do for years due to my caring role. I felt free, loved walking and exploring London. The hotel and room was perfect, breakfast was amazing the staff were welcoming. I had a lovely card and little gifts left on my bed from the manger of the hotel. Absolutely such a lovely kind thing to do. Thank you.

It was a really needed break in a stressful time. I don't have much time to relax and it made me feel valued. The hotel gave me an upgrade and I felt really cared for.

The break was important to myself and my husband as it gave us time to relax. The hotel was extremely helpful and included extra breakfast with a complimentary note in our room, which made the experience very special.

I went to London for a couple of days and it was a welcome break. I am quite isolated at home , so being in such a vibrant city was great, thank you x

My break was important to me because it was nice to get away from everyday duties. It gave me time to myself and the chance to go somewhere I have always wanted to visit. The hotel was fantastic, and the room was great. I am so pleased and grateful for this opportunity. Without Carefree, it wouldn’t have been possible.

It gave me valuable space and time to do something for me for once! I feel like my own person again. The hotel staff went above and beyond to make sure I was happy and had everything I needed.

I really enjoyed my break and the staff at St Giles Hotel London were brilliant. I was given a room upgrade to a bigger room which was well appointed and scrupulously clean. The complimentary breakfast was lovely and the hotel was extremely convenient and central. Thank you so much.

I stayed with St Giles hotel in London and had a lovely time. The room had been upgraded and we enjoyed a complimentary breakfast. There was even a note left by the manager, with some lovely free goodies. Couldn’t have felt more welcome and would use again xxx

Absolutely fantastic St Giles hotel in London were fantastic an left us a very lovely welcome note offering us complimentary breakfast which was a beautiful touch

Please pass on the following to the hotel: I would like the hotel to know that they make a real difference and cannot underestimate the value and difference their generosity makes. My previous record for caring without a single day off (around the covid era) was 2 years 8 months so breaks like this make an indelible impact and uplift. The hotel made the visit special and personalised from the moment of arrival. In reception we were informed by staff of a room upgrade and additional breakfasts foc. Inside the room was a hand written personal welcoming note from the manager. Everyone at the hotel St. Giles were fantastic and have our sincere gratitude for the break and how they made it happen

Carefree were so supportive, hotel was amazing and even though food wasn’t included they send me a lovely welcome card and voucher for free breakfast. Had the best time thank you so much

I was feeling very overwhelmed. I wasn't having the chance to decompress and relax or really do something for myself. I always wanted to go to London, so I used this opportunity. I felt a bit guilty at 1st going alone and it was strange not having to do everything I used to, but I enjoyed it. I got a full night's sleep, saw and did things I wanted to. The hotel was lovely, they upgraded the room and added breakfast, which was fantastic. It's 1st time I've stayed in a hotel and it was a wonderful experience.

To be able to have a break away in a hotel, allowing me time to just be was invaluable. There were so many choices of hotels and different parts of the country. Once booked it gave me something to look forward to. A treat just for me. I decided to look at hotels in London so opted for St Giles hotel. It was easy to get to and was in a fantastic location. On arrival the staff were so lovely, they upgraded my room to include complimentary breakfast on both days. In my room was a lovely card written by the manager, wishing me a well deserved break. I felt special, and actually felt cared for, which was a lovely feeling. This break has done me the world of good. I am so grateful for this. I'm looking forward to next year to hopefully be able to go this again.

I had to leave a full time job to care for my child, so our financial situation deteriorated significantly and I feel like I will never have a career again. I feel that I give so much of myself and don’t get much acknowledgment nor appreciation. This break makes me feel that someone knows how difficult it is to be a carer and that we deserve to be recognised for what we do. The Hotel kindly gave complimentary breakfast which was very generous. Thank you.

I would like to express my sincere thanks for my break in London. It has been a long time since I had a night away, and I enjoyed every moment of it. The hotel was great, so were the staff - so thank you to them. Having a small moment when you are not on edge as a carer, really means a lot. Thank you, Carefree Space, you are helping people like me considerably.

We stayed for 2 nights. The staff were very friendly , informative, and nothing was too much trouble. When we arrived in our room, there was an envelope left for us with a little bag with a chocolate bar and small toiletries. When I read the card I felt quite emotional. It was handwritten, saying they were thrilled to offer the stay, they had also upgraded our room and added Complimentary breakfast for me and my husband. This was a thank you for being a carer. I really appreciated that the letter was handwritten and recognised the role of caring, it made me feel valued. Having time to unwind and spend time doing things as and when you want is a real treat, only focusing on yourself can be difficult when you're a carer but being given the time and space to do this is amazing.A big thank you to Carefree and St Giles Hotel.

I was gifted a break at St Giles Hotel in London. I took my 9-year-old son while my disabled 14-year-old son was at his respite centre. We had a fabulous time in London. We particularly enjoyed the Tower of London, Hamley’s and eating out in China Town. We did lots of walking and sightseeing. We created some amazing memories. We relaxed and laughed a lot. We really appreciated the personal hand-written note from Andrew welcoming us on our carers break. We felt recognised and appreciated, and we were touched by the generosity of Carefree and St Giles Hotel. Thank you so much.

I will never forget it as it was an exceptional experience to be away from the stress and caring responsibility. I found a time to reconnect with myself and give myself a priority. I had time to spend with my child 10-year as I never got time for him due to the needs of my husband who requires me to look after him all the time. My son told me that he finally found out more about my personality and what food I like. We both had a lovely time as he is an unpaid young carer who knows how precious these moments are to be on a break. I had a nice shopping trip on Oxford Street and I treated myself well. The hotel staff are so friendly and welcoming. They smiled and they did their best to accommodate my needs, e.g. i booked the hotel with a child (10 years), but breakfast was only for one person. The hotel was nice to be flexible to add my son to the breakfast fro free. They are so kind and have lovely personalities. Thank you to everyone who made this possible for my son (Young Carer) to have this fantastic break.

It was brilliant St Giles hotel in London made me feel so so special going the extra mile, I feel completely refreshed and relaxed

I had a great stay at the St Giles Hotel. The welcome card from MD was a nice touch. I spent the afternoon pampering myself in my room: manicure, pedicure, facial. Then headed off to dinner and theatre. Despite being central and noisy outside, the windows block out sound, and I got a real good sleep. Breakfast was lovely. It was a great little break to de-stress and do some of the things I enjoy and can’t do with my daughter as she screams everywhere she goes. I was back home in time to pick the girl up from respite and take her to school. Feel refreshed and able to carry on !!! Thank you, Carefree and the St. Giles Hotel!

The hotel was fabulous, everyone was so caring. I received a complimentary breakfast, and there was also a handwritten card and a gift in the room when I arrived. It was the icing on the cake of a fabulous break which I needed so much. The older I get, the harder I find it to cope with my full-time caring role on a physical, emotional, and psychological level. Two nights away without hearing the beeping of a ventilator or a feed pump was absolute bliss and has really helped recharge my batteries. Thank you, I am truly grateful.

St Giles Hotel was fab and left me a little handwritten note telling me they had upgraded me to include breakfast as well. This was just the break I needed. Thank you so much!

I only had to think about myself for two days. It was so liberating.

This break was a godsend, I needed a recharge and this break did exactly that. I can’t thank you enough. The hotel was amazing, in a perfect location. They even upgraded to include breakfast which was so lovely. Thanks again for this amazing service as I wouldn’t have been able to take a break like this!

St Giles hotel in London was amazing. They upgraded my room and gave me complimentary breakfast. Personalised gift card with chocolate and toiletries in a cute bag. I took my other son with me as I feel I don’t get quality time with him as I spend my time with my other son in a caring role. Being on my own and boys always with me 24/7 this break was beyond needed. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

It's made such a big difference to my caring role. I was exhausted 😩 but kept on going... I really needed a break. I would like to personally thank the Carefree team who encouraged me to book a hotel for a break. Now I am refreshed 😌 I'm looking forward to another break. Thank you

I have been lucky enough to access Carefree Breaks before, but this latest break was the best by far. The hotel staff were so friendly and kind, and even though the booking had originally been on a room only basis, when I got there I found a card in my room saying that we had been upgraded to include a complimentary breakfast, and there was also a little cute bag with a heart in it and a kit kat and some bath milk inside! It is little things like this that make such a difference.

This break was long overdue. I wasn’t confident enough to leave my son, who I care for, and I had never slept away from him before. This break gave me the time to do normal things for myself. I feel more relaxed now, and my anxiety has reduced. I was able to meet up with old friends and explore the city of London. It was a very refreshing experience. Thank you so much!

This break was very important to me as I was very stressed and feeling unable to cope. This break has helped enormously, and I feel so much happier. The hotel was lovely; I slept really well in super comfy beds and was upgraded to a free breakfast. Thank you so much.

This was an amazing experience for myself and my partner we were burnt out and desperately needed a break! It was fun and the hotel upgraded our stay to include breakfast 😁

The St Giles Hotel was absolutely amazing, I’d never be able to afford anywhere like that to stay. Nothing was too much trouble and a HUGE shout out to the reception and concierge team who went above and beyond when I had lost my car key. I can’t praise them enough. So thank you Carefree and thank you St Giles Hotel!

It was so nice to have a bit of me time as this is very rare for me. I really appreciate the wonderful help and will treasure my break. Thank you.

I’m very happy for the services, it makes it possible to have some respite not just from caring responsibilities but also from the business of life. So thank you! The hotel treated me really well and the facilities were really nice. I was able to explore the surrounding area with plenty of things to do. Will definitely recommend it. Looking forward to the next one!

Thank you so much. This break away was needed and very much appreciated.

It gave me some much needed time for myself time to relax & a break from my very busy caring role, it really helped my mental health. Hotel was excellent all the staff were very helpful & friendly I would like to thank St Giles hotel for a very comfortable stay and for our upgrade to the fantastic breakfast it was delicious & very much appreciated. I would highly recommend St Giles. A personal thank you to all at carefree & St Giles for my amazing break

Me and my husband had a wonderful time just the two of us. The break strengthened our relationship and meant we could do things we can't when our son is with us!

I was greeted and received well by staff. They also gave me a personal message with some complementaries in my room. It was a great respite. Thank you.

I had a great break at St Giles Hotel London. The staff were so friendly and quick to help with any requests we made. I was free from being just mum and carer. The break reminded me I have my own identity. I can't wait to go back. Thank you so much.

My break was very much needed, I would have never been able to afford it. I have never been away from my cared-for person. This past year I have faced bad mental health myself and this has helped me so much. The hotel was amazing, they upgraded us for breakfast and left a handwritten note and card in the room. The managers name was Andrew and I could not have thanked him enough for this.

Everything was getting to be too much for me, so it was great to just get away for a couple of days and forget everything. The hotel was in a great location, and the upgrade to include breakfast was a lovely surprise. Thank you for everything.

The fact that hotels are willing to donate bookings for carers made me feel that our role is valued and appreciated. The entire process was super easy. I was really at breaking point and feeling quite resentful and trapped. Going away for a change of scenery has really boosted my energy and mental health. I returned to another crisis situation but was able to 'hit the ground running' and pick up my responsibilities with cheerfulness. I was given a refurbished room and treated to breakfast. On my pillow, I received a handwritten note welcoming me and recognising the importance of my role. There was also a little goody bag with some treats. What a wonderful experience. The staff were all so cheerful, helpful, and hardworking. I would not hesitate to recommend the St. Giles to family and friends. Great location and friendly staff. A great experience which is not always the case for central London. Many, many thanks :)

I was able to spend time with my adult children that live in London. I don’t often get time to socialise with them and our relationships suffer. To spend time having fun together was invaluable.

Life can be quite full-on, and there's not much time to relax. Having a break and being able to relax and sleep is so important; it helps me to be the best mum/carer I can be. Being able to have a lie-in and not have to rush to do the daily routine was such a nice treat just for me. I often feel selfish if I make an hour for myself, but I'm learning how important it is and that it's okay to once in a while think of me. The break made me feel refreshed and ready to get back to my caring role/routine. I'd forgotten how to relax. Thank you.

Being recognised is amazing. Unpaid carers are never acknowledged. Having a break was uplifting and meant a lot. I felt valued

The break was very welcome. I was able to go away with my husband and spend two nights enjoying London. The hotel upgraded us to a newly refurbished room and added breakfast to our stay. The hotel had thought of a lot of little details that added to the ease of the stay. The staff were all very efficient and helpful. I will recommend Carefree to my other friends who are caring for loved ones and would benefit from a break. Thank you.

It gave me a sense of normality, and I could relax and be myself. I feel the hotel went above and beyond with a lovely complimentary breakfast.

I can't put into words how much this has impacted me. Just amazing.

I am feeling more energized. The hotel provided excellent services all around. Thank you for letting us enjoy the two nights.

It was important to be able to switch offer and do something for myself, and spend time with my husband. The hotel was great, the room was spot on, they looked after us, which was lovely. Thank you so much for enabling carers to take a much needed break.

I loved the freedom to be able to be me - being able to go to bed earlier and get up later and have breakfast provided. St Giles in London was very welcoming and left a welcome gift in the room.

I can't even tell you how much this break meant to me. I would not have been in a position to have this break without Carefree. I'm so grateful and appreciative. The experience was just beyond anything I could have dreamed of. Some time to rest and reset. I felt so much happier and I don't remember the last time I was able to have a lay in! Thank you for everything. Thank you for making the process so easy and offering this service to carers x

I loved the freedom and how it helped my daughter and I reconnect. Thank you for a lovely stay. The free breakfast set us up for the day and was delicious. Staff were very friendly and welcoming and we loved the card and gift.

We had a break in central London, which we would never think of doing. But it was exciting and had a fantastic atmosphere. Carefree is a great idea!

This is a wonderful scheme. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for caring about a population who gets forgotten. I can't wait for another break with Carefree. I feel appreciated, valued and like I have been on an adventure. You can't be rich and be a carer. It doesn't work that way so if someone shows you that you are appreciated and important, it goes a long way.

The hotel was in a great location, clean comfortable room, a chance to just kick back and not worry about buying food, cooking food, serving it up, helping someone get dressed in the morning and so on - time just for me.

I enjoyed having time with my daughter, who is also a registered carer for her Dad. Spending time in London is not possible financially without the help of Carefree. The hotel was brilliant. They left a little card, personally written to say thank you for choosing them and made reference to how important our role as carers is and how much they like to support us unpaid carers.