Wall of Love

The hotel was lovely. It's the first time since my son was born (in almost 8 years) that I've spent a night away from him. It gave me some space to breathe and have a change of scenery.

We had a wonderful overnight stay and were greeted with a lovely welcome from the hotel staff on arrival and at every interaction thereafter. We thoroughly enjoyed Dundee and everything it had to offer, and although we didn’t spend a huge amount of money in the hotel, we did spend a fair bit in Dundee itself on various attractions and eateries (which we were more than happy to). The convenience of the hotel being next to the train station and so close to the main attractions we visited, e.g. the V&A, was an added bonus and made for a wonderfully relaxed and stress-free time. Huge thank you to all!

I get to breaking point around every 3 months caring 24/7 for my housebound teenage son. Even with other people available to him, everything falls to me. If I can get away, he is now at a point in his health where he can rely on others for a short period. These breaks save my life.

This was my first time staying in Dundee, and the hotel was amazing - great location, yummy breakfast and rooms were spacious, and beds were very comfortable. I really benefited from 2 nights away from my caring role and really enjoyed the break to recharge my batteries. Having the opportunity to be gifted these breaks allows me to continue in my caring role for my dad, as I have something to look forward to. Can you please thank the hotel for their generosity of this break, as I have loved every minute of my break in Dundee. This break allows me to prioritise myself for a couple of days, and I have come home well rested and ready to look after my dad again, who I love dearly.

My break was very much needed as I am my adult son's main carer. I was also my husband's main carer for 3 years as he had suffered badly from 2 strokes, but he very sadly passed away 17 months ago. Our son is a handful as he has complex neurological needs. I was advised by one of my son's workers about your organisation, and goodness, I am so grateful for the opportunity to go away for 2 nights of peace and quiet and no stress. It was absolutely wonderful. The hotel I chose was in the centre of Dundee. Perfect for shopping and eating out. The hotel itself was clean and modern. I couldn't praise the staff highly enough. They were kind and friendly and couldn't do enough to make our stay enjoyable. Thank you all for helping me feel human again, even if only for a short time. I am so grateful to everyone for making this affordable, and I can't wait for my next getaway, which will probably be the same hotel, as they were so welcoming and kind.

I didn’t want to travel too far in case I was needed at home. This is my first break ever from my caring role, and gave me a great sense of freedom for a few days, which I still carry with me, so thank you so much for this opportunity, as I wouldn’t have done this without your support. Feeling very grateful.

This break was important for me as it allowed me to relax and have some peace of mind. The Four Points Flex Hotel provided a cosy room, which was nice and spacious. I got some good night's rest. The location of the hotel was perfect as it is right in the Newcastle City Centre, and I was able to do some sightseeing without having to go too far. I would definitely consider staying here again.

I am a carer for a few different people with a range of different needs. I was starting to struggle with the day to day responsibilities I have and knew I needed mine time. Thankfully having the carefree hotel break, gave me the opportunity to take myself away from all the stress. The hotel was lovely to stay in all the staff were very friendly, the location was local but just being able to get away was really helpful. I felt I was able to dal with things in a better manner. Thank you ☺️

As I hadn't had a break from my caring responsibilities for about 3-4 years, I was really beginning to feel the mental and emotional strain/exhaustion lately. When I discovered and registered with Carefree, it really encouraged me to book a short trip away; even a couple of days away made all the difference to my overall wellbeing. Thank you for such a wonderful opportunity!

Hi all at Carefree. My name is Jane, and I'm a carer for my partner, who has multiple sclerosis. Before discovering Carefree, I had never managed to have any respite from my caring responsibilities. I have now been on a few well-needed breaks over the past 3/4 years with my friend, most recently at Four Points Flex by Sheraton, Newcastle. Can I just say that the hotel was exceptional and the staff's customer care and service was second to none. Breakfast was amazing, and our room was warm and cosy. The hotel is 5 minutes walk from the train station and the same again for an array of beautiful bars and restaurants. Newcastle is absolutely amazing ☺️. May I just thank Carefree and all its staff for making such breaks available for carers - it truly is a wonderful service. With Warm Regards Jane

I used the break to celebrate my partner and me for our anniversary. It was very special and significantly helped me feel more loved and connected.

Visiting family in Scotland that I can't usually get to see in person.

My break gave me a chance to meet up with my son-in-law, whom I hadn't seen for over a year and a half, at my beloved daughter's funeral, who passed away in July last year from breast cancer and ovarian cancer at the age of 52. I went to Bridgend, spent time with him and then to the crematorium to put flowers on her resting place. In the evening, I was also able to go to the theatre to see a show in Cardiff. A perfect break for me. I will be using the hotel again in the future. It's next to the railway station and bus terminal. Cardiff is a lovely city.

The hotel staff were friendly and helpful. Sometimes you can feel unseen, and your self-esteem can be low, but we were treated with respect. We were able to spend time exploring the local sights and relax.

Hotel very good, the change of scene was necessary and made a difference to my wellbeing. I was exhausted and at the end of my tether.

With the financial and emotional stress of Christmas, it’s easier to loose yourself in the extra noise. My break in December has brought me back reset and am able to focus better on the needs of my cared-for. Thank you!

It was lovely and relaxing. The hotel and staff were nice. It was great just to wander and sit and have a coffee and watch the world go by.

The break was very important, as it improved my connection with the person I care for and gave me some time to relax. Thanks to Four Points Flex by Sheraton Hotel and their staff—everyone was fantastic and made my stay easy and enjoyable.

This break was a little god send, thank you. The hotel was fantastic, we checked-in early, had a lovely, relaxing breakfast next day and staff were lovely.

My husband and I had a lovely time in Dundee. We even went for a wee massage which was lovely. The hotel was really nice and the staff were friendly. Thank you again so much for the opportunity

Thank you so much, I felt free, I did not have to think about or do anything for the person I care for, for 24 hours....heaven

The hotel in Newcastle was beautiful and the breakfast was amazing. The staff were friendly and caring. I feel this break has recharged my batteries. Thank you sooo much.

It was like stepping out of the real world where I feel exhausted all the time. Our room was comfy, warm and easy to relax In. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Delicious breakfast too.

It gave my husband and me the opportunity to switch off and be husband and wife. It can be difficult to step away from our caring responsibilities most of the time. This break gave us the chance to talk! The hotel was great, and we were very well catered for. Thank you.

Thanks, I took my daughter as she helps with caring for my wife and had just passed her driving test. It was her first time in Dundee and in a room on her own so it helped her confidence. We ate at a Japanese restaurant, went to the V&A and bought vinyl records. Nice not to be working on a Monday, no cooking or cleaning. Nice hotel, very central.

Just needed some time out from 24/7 caring for myself and partner. To enjoy some time away from the house and reconnect. Thank you to the hotels that offer this opportunity for carers it’s much appreciated

I had a lovely break away from my caring duties. Lovely hotel, staff were amazing and lovely breakfast. Perfect location and we were able to spend our time outdoors and enjoy not having to worry about caring for loved one.

It gave me time away to spend some time on myself — being able to explore the outside world without having to look back worrying for someone always (my thoughts were still there, wondering). I felt more relaxed when I came back. Thanks.

So grateful for this. Just what I needed, and I feel refreshed and ready to continue as normal.

I was on my knees and struggling to meet the needs of the person I care for, but we always find a way to carry on. The two days away in Newcastle were the recharge I needed. I’ve come back straight into my role with new energy. I couldn’t do it without you guys — what you provide is a lifeline. Also, Four Points Sheraton in Newcastle was perfect, with a relaxing atmosphere, great nightlife, and a lovely breakfast. Thank you all.

I had the most amazing relaxing time from start to finish. The hotel was lovely and staff were very friendly. I went to Four Points Flex Dundee. This is second time I have stay here, thanks to Carefree. Hotel let me check in early and then I was off on my sightseeing. I got bus to Crail and St Andrews and next day Broughty Ferry. I was a solo traveler and met lots of nice people that gave me directions and recommendations. Had nice chats sitting in the sunshine. I felt so happy and free from my responsibilities back home. My loved one was cared and looked after just fine. Most times I don’t realise I need a holiday until I actually get one. I came home feeling more relaxed and everyone could see this in me.

I work full time and look after my husband. I don't have much time for a respite and time for myself. It was very beneficial for my mental health to be able to get away for a break. I enjoyed staying at the hotel, the people working there were professional and kind. The room was small but enough for myself, clean and we'll insulated. I had a good sleep despite being an insomniac and the hotel being located right by the train station. Thank you.

The staff where lovely, nothing was too much a problem for them, it was nice to get some quality time away with my partner, the breakfast was lovely too, we enjoyed the relaxed setting and they even had a coffee machine which was a great bonus. Again the staff where amazingly lovely

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to have a break, it really came on time. I had such a great time with my sister who was also in need of this break. Thanks again

It was super special, thank you. Thanks to you I was able to spend 1-2-1 time with my very pregnant niece, I wouldn't otherwise. I'm very grateful. The hotel was really nice and clean. The staff were friendly and welcoming.

It was so important for me to get a break. I juggle my caring role with work responsibilities and I mainly work at home. This means me and my cared-for person are constantly in each others' company and it can feel overwhelming which has led to a breakdown in our relationship in the past. This break let me destress and recharge my batteries before that relationship break down. I feel more relaxed and able to cope better with the responsibilities I have in my caring role. The hotel was great - staff were so friendly and helpful and the location was fantastic. Will definitely go back there again.

Being able to relax, and have some me time was really good. The hotel as excellent, very clean, and booking was very easy. The hotel staff were very friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend it to anyone wanting to use it.

I chose the hotel in an area where one of my daughters lived in. We had a wonderful time visiting different places with no worrying about anything . The hotel was lovely, as were the staff. Restful sleep and breakfast in the morning. I also got the chance to meet my new grandson for the first time. Just perfect!!

Absolutely loved our visit to this area/hotel. Enjoyed the various visitor attractions. Hotel staff were so very friendly and helpful. Hotel was so clean and room in perfect order. Breakfast was a real treat alongside their gluten free options. Would love to go back again….

The Carefree break was such an amazing and kind gift, and helped ease the pressure of caring for that short time. The hotel was lovely and very welcoming and friendly. Thank you to Carefree and to the hotel in Cardiff.

With 3 autistic children and a 7-year-old at home, we never get any time to just relax and take a breath. Having these two days makes such a difference—just to reset and be us, without children. The hotel was great—no problems, nice room and great breakfast, excellent location in the city centre, and we could walk everywhere we wanted to. Thanks so much.

My friend and I had a great time walking around the city. I don't get to walk usually so this was beneficial to me. The hotel is ideal and the breakfast was lovely. The mattress does need replacing mind you.

It allowed me time with my husband. I often feel guilty when my caring role takes over and stops us from socializing together as we would have done. Having the date booked for the break meant we now had to focus on planning for the relevant support to be put in place, and we were able to follow through by booking travel by train and we were able to appreciate the opportunity we had been given straight away. Having arrived at the Hotel ( which was located in view of the train station) the staff were very helpful. We would like to thank the hotel and the staff for making us feel so welcomed and for the gift of a couple of days with hubby on his birthday.

I really can't thank you enough, I didn't realise how much I needed a break. The hotel was amazing and situated in a perfect position for everything the staff were just wonderful xxx

It was important to have a break from my loved one as there is often stress involved with looking after him. I was able to rest and then visit different parts of Cardiff with my husband. The Hotel was very good, it was our 42nd wedding anniversary while we were away and they gave us a bottle of wine to celebrate.

I loved my time away, it was so great that I could do it on a budget through Carefree. Thank God they have organisations like this, a total Godsend.

This break was just what I needed—to relax, unwind, and step away from the daily grind. It made a big difference in helping me feel like myself again. Huge thanks to the Carefree and hotel for the warm welcome and easy, comfortable vibe. You made it all feel effortless.

It gave me a much-needed mental break from constantly caring and worrying about everything. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I could finally exhale. The hotel was fantastic: clean, comfortable, and welcoming, with staff who made everything easy and stress-free. Whether I was lounging in my room or enjoying the local sights, I didn’t have to think about anything beyond the moment. It was the perfect escape to reset and recharge. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a real pause from the everyday mental load.

The hotel and staff were fantastic. I went with my youngest daughter. We never get quality time together just the two of us. It really made a difference and gave us lasting memories together. I am forever grateful. Thank you so much!!

It was important for me to take a break because I was feeling burnt out and short on patience. Easter holidays are a good time for me to have a break as I'm needed for the school run for my daughter. The hotel staff were very cheerful and welcoming. The room was just right, very clean, comfy bed, modern, floor-to-ceiling window with a view of grand buildings and Tyne Bridge. Next time, I need to focus on rest rather than activity and learning.

Sleeperz Hotel Dundee was fantastic. A lovely room and breakfast, and even better that I could have a 2 night break. I feel so much happier now that I have had some time away on my own just to be me.

Our son does not sleep and our living situation does not allow for any time with my husband where we can enjoy and relax. These breaks allow us to chill out and go for a meal and have a date without worry.

It was wonderful—I loved every minute, from jumping on the bus to getting back home. I didn’t think about anything apart from myself. I didn’t have to check the time once, which is a huge change from always rushing to get back to look after my mum. If I had any complaints, it would be that it wasn’t long enough! Thank you soooo much.

I'm deaf and a carer for my 3-year-old son, who is also deaf. It's double stress for daily life when not all people or services have Deaf Awareness. When I'm away, I feel more relaxed and stay away from heavy responsibility for 2 days. That's amazing! The hotel's staff was nice and communicated with me via text.

I couldn't have anticipated how wonderful all the staff were, top class service excellent room, so lovely and clean, breakfast was amazing. This was so good, especially as I felt extremely anxious leaving my caring role for 2 days, but I'm glad it all went smoothly from start to finish. I can't say thank you enough for this amazing wee break.

To have the opportunity to take a short break was most welcome. Caring for a teenager who is quite dependent on me is quite tiring and stressful. To be able to visit somewhere I had never been, Newcastle and explore the city was a lovely experience. The hotel was lovely, functional and the staff where very pleasant.

We had a wonderful break in Dundee. This allowed us both to relax and reconnect as a couple. We returned home feeling refreshed and more energetic. It was a wonderful benefit to me to be able to get away from my caring responsibilities for a short time.

It was nice to just relax and enjoy everyday things.

It’s always important to make sure you get time for yourself while you’re in a caring role. I took my friend who is also in a caring role so was good for both of us to enjoy ourselves by going for dinner, cinema and exploring the area. The hotel was really nice and very central to everywhere, staff were very polite and helpful which made our day even better.

What a great experience it was, it was so nice to have time away from my caring roll and be me so thank you for this opportunity it was greatly appreciated.

It was good to relax in a completely different environment. The hotel was very comfortable with a choice of delicious cooked breakfast or continental breakfast and easy access to the train station. The hotel staff were friendly and efficient and they looked after the luggage on the final day. Thank you to the hotel and to Carefree for arranging this lovely break.

The break was important to me because I often feel bogged down having to do all the cooking, cleaning, housework etc, so it was lovely to have these things done for me. I went with a good friend and we had a great relaxing time, went on some lovely walks, visited museums and had a great time for ourselves. The hotel was super, very clean, and central.

I was completely burnt out and stressed. Even the travel was a break in itself, only having to think of myself. Not having to he hyper vigilant, being able to have a full nights sleep and just having time to recharge was amazing. My son’s care needs are extremely high and worries over his health mean I’m constantly on edge and exhausted. Without a break I’d really struggle.

It was a badly needed break and I have come home with my batteries recharged! The hotel location was ideal with an excellent breakfast.

The hotel was welcoming, well located and clean. The breakfast was so lovely. Just not having to be the one cooking made a real difference. My room overlooked the Tay River and I watched the sunset on the river both nights. I was able to read and shop for just myself, sit in a cafe with a coffee and watch the world go by. These are all small, everyday things but a luxury to a carer.

This was the first time I ever took a day for myself without feeling guilty, and it almost felt strange to have that time just for me. Overall, it was one of the smoothest experiences I’ve had, and both the journey and the hotel stay were wonderful.

The break was important to me because I also need time for myself, I'm busy 52 weeks a year so a break was really needed. It made a difference to my mental health and my well being, being able to enjoy time to myself without extra responsibilities. Thanks for the opportunity to have some relaxation time.

Hotel was perfect location, clean, breakfast very efficient, room was compact but ok for the 2 nights we were there. We had a great time, the people of Cardiff were so friendly, we visited Barry island and had a quick dip in the sea. lt was very invigorating, my friend and I had a lovely time.

I have been waiting a long time to take this break. My son has recently started school and it has been a particularly challenging period. Having the opportunity to sleep undisturbed and a full day out on my own schedule was absolutely wonderful. I didn't have to deprioritise my own needs and I was able to remember what it is like to be myself, without my caring responsibilities. I was able to come home and meet his needs better.

Had a lovely 2 day break in SleepZ in Dundee breakfast included. I took my mum with me which was really nice spending some quality time to relax away from my caring role and to wander around the shops and go out for dinner without any stress. We visited the V&A Museum which is 2 minutes away from the hotel, worth a visit, then took a bus for the day to Broughty Ferry and had a nice walk along the beach. The hotel is lovely and very handy as it's right above the train station. The staff is very helpful and the rooms are spotless. I would like to thank the hotel very much for our stay. Would also like to thank you very much for this opportunity, very much appreciated. Feeling much more refreshed 😊

The break was relaxing and stress-free. The hotel was lovely and clean, the staff were friendly and the brekfast was gorgeous . Felt lovely to be treated to a few nights. Thank you soo much x

Just having the space away from all the drama at home and being able to just be me for few hours and relax was fantastic.

Thanks for the opportunity of the break, just focusing on myself was lovely and very relaxing, also improved my relationship with my husband. My son was looked after by my brother, it was nice to spend some time away and really recharge.

I didn't realise just how hard I work daily just to get through a day. Having the break enabled me to spend 2 days doing what I want on my own schedule which NEVER happens. I even had naps!! It's been hard stepping back into the caring role after tasting life without the impact of caring, but I'm so glad I had the opportunity!!

The whole process was straightforward. It made a night away affordable, cost being the biggest barrier to getting a break. The hotel was in an ideal location, very clean and staff were welcoming and friendly.

I have four children, three of them being disabled sons, so I took my daughter on the Carefree break because it's a difficult situation for her also. We had an amazing time; it was so lovely to connect with her and spend time with her! I really feel that the break did us both good mentally.

The break enabled me to step away from the stresses and strains of everyday life as a carer. The hotel was lovely and relaxing, which really helped.

I haven't even thought about going away in so long and then when I did, I almost instantly realised I'd needed it so much. The hotel was super central, staff were brilliant and the food was awesome.

The break gave me and my husband the chance for some stress-free quality time together. It allowed us both to clear our heads and just focus on ourselves. It's amazing how just a few days away can help to de-stress and give you the strength to continue caring for a loved one. The hotel was amazing, the staff were friendly, and we felt like we had been there many times before, even though this was our first visit.

I really enjoyed my break. It was so relaxing having time to myself and I now feel recharged. Thank you.

The staff at Sleeperz Hotel in Dundee really helped to make my break special because everyone was so friendly and helpful, nothing was too much bother for them. The hotel was really comfortable as well, a great place to stay. Being able to get away for a couple of days and take my daughter with me was really special. I was able to totally relax, have fun and enjoy a few treats. And the fact this was enabled for me by Carefree breaks made me feel really valued and I can hardly say how much this means to me because so often what I do feels invisible most of the time. I'm so very grateful.The staff at Sleeperz Hotel in Dundee really helped to make my break special because everyone was so friendly and helpful; nothing was too much bother for them. The hotel was really comfortable as well, a great place to stay. Being able to get away for a couple of days and take my daughter with me was really special. I was able to totally relax, have fun, and enjoy a few treats. And the fact this was enabled for me by Carefree breaks made me feel really valued, and I can hardly say how much this means to me because so often what I do feels invisible most of the time. I'm so very grateful.

A much needed restful 2 night break in a lovely hotel. Wonderful to have time to myself, to have a good night’s sleep and not to have to cook or even make a bed. A bit of breathing space enabled me to come home with a more positive outlook.

I feel refreshed and able to continue in my caring role. Thank You for recognising such a need to provide little windows of respite for carers, and making it happen. I'm very grateful.

I enjoyed the freedom of doing what I want, when I wanted to, without having to consider a lot of other things. It was lovely to have time to enjoy things I enjoy. I feel rested and more able to continue caring. Sleeperz Hotel is in the perfect place for exploring Dundee, right next to the train station, V&a and town centre. The views were lovely. The hotel was spotless, staff were welcoming and helpful and the atmosphere was relaxing. I would highly recommend this hotel. It is a wonderful service and makes us carers feel valued. I appreciate your service very much.

A change of scenery and the ability to take a friend with me was all I needed. It was so nice to be able to relax. Thank you very much for making a tough time easier to bear.

Thank you for making me feel that what I do is valued and appreciated. A wonderful service.

This break gave me confidence to be by myself.

I went with my friend who also cares for her husband. We could only do one night as we didn't have cover for a second night, but still felt better after it.

Thank you for the opportunity. Now I have many more ideas about how I can take a break for myself.

The hotel was fabulous! We loved it. Thank you so much!

I can’t afford to go on a break, this felt like luxury, a really needed it. Thank you so much for the opportunity.

It was such a pleasure to be able to go away and get spoilt in a gorgeous hotel. Carefree made this happen and everything ran smoothly. I had the most amazing time and just chilled. I can not thank you enough for this fantastic opportunity.

I'm enormously grateful to have had the opportunity to have a break. The change of environment and being free of responsibilities, like cooking, just thank you!

Freedom to enjoy “our” time. The break was not too distant, but it was a really enjoyable change of scene with good clean, friendly hotel within walking distance and bus to key places.

We both thoroughly enjoyed our 2 night, much needed break. We can't thank you enough. It is a brilliant way to ensure that carers get the break they so need, enabling them to recharge and have time for themselves.

The hotel was lovely. Clean and a lovely view. Staff were nice and breakfast was included. It was wonderful to be free to do what I wanted for the break. Thank you so much. Appreciated greatly.

I took a break in my home town with a friend visiting from a long distance away. It was great to use a city centre hotel and enjoy the facilities of the hotel and the wonderful museums and galleries nearby. No time was lost in travelling far afield and lots of opportunities were available to walk between venues as we enjoyed some beautiful weather during our stay.