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Wall of Love

Read heartfelt stories from unpaid carers who found comfort and support following their break.

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Elaine avatar
Elaine
This was my second Carefree break to the Village Hotel Bury. I have family living in the area, so it was a good mix of seeing them and having a break for some much needed time to myself. The hotel is lovely and to be greeted on first name terms by Maxine Leon when checking in, made my stay even more special, a massive thank you to her for making my stay amazing. Having this break to look forward to means everything to me, life has been difficult with my caring this last year and this time alone gave me time to reflect, recharge and relax. Thank you so much.
Oct 8, 2026
Kay avatar
Kay
My break was important to me as it gave me a chance to think just about myself, knowing that my husband was being cared for and was safe. I was able to please myself as to where I went, what I did and when I did it. Also, I was able to visit somewhere we had last been over twenty years ago, it was a little bittersweet but overall positive with good memories, which reminded me of the beloved who once did not forget who I am. I would like to praise the staff at Slayley Hall for their welcome, the standard of service in all areas, the beautiful grounds and the good food, also, they managed to provide great weather!
Jul 17, 2026
Teresa avatar
Teresa
I stayed at Holiday Inn Express Newcastle Gateshead, which, as well as being handy for some retail therapy, is also close to where my brother and sister-in-law live, so we had a lovely Sunday lunch before my stay, and the next day I had a wander around the Metrocentre. Something that I haven't been able to do for a very long time. The hotel was lovely with friendly staff. I felt so relaxed. Thank you.
Apr 11, 2026
Fiona avatar
Fiona
I chose to stay at the Aberdeen village hotel so I could spend some quality me time to chill and relax. Also to spend some quality time with my brother who lives in Aberdeen with his family, both of which I achieved. Thank you so very much to Carefree for this break. I am truly grateful. The hotel was fabulous and the staff very pleasant and helpful. I took time out in the pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. My room was very clean and comfortable. Breakfast was provided and delicious. Thank you to all that made this possible for me.
Feb 3, 2026
Clodagh avatar
Clodagh
I was able to just lie by the swimming pool and read my book. I had time with my husband to relax and enjoy each other's company.
Jan 25, 2026
Emily avatar
Emily
The break meant my husband and I could have some time to reconnect and discuss things in detail, along with making memories together as we used to when we were younger.
Jan 20, 2026
Amy avatar
Amy
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!
Dec 23, 2025
Teresa avatar
Teresa
It was so lovely to have 2 nights at Slaley Hall, made possible by Carefree. It was lovely and relaxing and I was able to switch off for a couple of days. I would never have been able to stay somewhere like that without this opportunity. I have a lovely friend who lives an hour away from the hotel so I was able to meet up with her, which was lovely to be able to do, knowing my parents were being cared for. Thank you so much Carefree 💓
Dec 18, 2025
Susan avatar
Susan
I’m so glad you sent this survey, as I wanted to be able to say thank you to Carefree properly. This is the first break I have taken via Carefree, and I wanted to highlight what a brilliant organisation this is. To be able to take a couple of days away during what is already a stressful period has been invaluable. I’m now feeling super relaxed and ready for wherever lies ahead this Christmas. I am very grateful Carefree exists and keep up the good work!!
Dec 10, 2025
Kirsty avatar
Kirsty
My daughter and I had a well-needed breakaway. We got to spend time thinking of ourselves. As my daughter said, she’s not a young carer for 48 hours. Being able to go for a swim and eat a meal with no interruptions. It meant the world. The hotel spoilt her as well.
Oct 27, 2025
Fiona avatar
Fiona
Our break was truly important to me and my hubby as it's only the second time in 30 years we have been on a break together. We've only had holidays with our cared for relative as she never wanted to be apart from us until recently gaining some confidence to let us have a short break together. We've had a lovely respite break at Slayley Hall with many sincere thank yous to the wonderful Carefree team. The hotel staff were welcoming, pleasant, efficient and helpful. Our room was clean and comfortable as was the hotel. Food was delicious with excellent choices. We relaxed in the pool, steam room, jacuzzi and sauna. Later we relaxed in one of the quiet lounge's. The next day we enjoyed a sedate walk in the beautiful forest areas around the hotel. Thank you so very much for making this possible for me and my hubby, it is greatly appreciated.
Oct 14, 2025
Michelle avatar
Michelle
My eldest son and I took the break together, it was the first time we've had a chance to connect one-on-one for a very long time, as I'm always so busy caring for my husband. It was so refreshing to get away and not worry about what was happening at home, even if for just 24 hours. Thank you to Carefree and thank you to Voco Edinburgh for making this happen for us!
Jun 24, 2025
Cheryl avatar
Cheryl
I got to pause time just for me.
Feb 26, 2024