Wall of Love

The break was lovely and relaxing, just what we needed. Myself and my husband felt like new people after a full night's sleep and relaxation. The hotel was perfect and had a pool and spa, which was a lovely little treat.

I took a car trip this time, not so far away - exploring towns and villages, enjoying walks by the water, and hikes in the countryside. The stay gave me an opportunity - a prompt even - to plan a break and enjoy myself in my own company, eat well, get some fresh air, and look forward to coming back home afterwards

The hotel staff were amazing and so welcoming. Our room was clean and comfortable. It felt great to be a normal person and be able to walk through the city streets without the everyday stress and worries that come from being a parent of a child with high care needs. This chance has given us the short burst of happiness that we needed to be able to carry on. Thank you so much.

Two nights away where all I had to think about was me and my husband was a massive relief. Having a lovely breakfast cooked for us and plenty of time to relax was amazing. The hotel and its staff were lovely. A real benefit to our mental and physical health. And a big thank you to Slaley Hall for offering the rooms to Carefree, and a big thank you to Carefree for just being there. You all make a huge difference.

This break was really important to both my mam and me because it gave us the chance to step away from our everyday routines, relax, and spend some quality time together. It was exactly what we needed to recharge and make some lovely memories. What really made the break special was the staff. Every member of the team went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and looked after. Their kindness, friendliness, and genuine care made all the difference. They truly made our stay and made the whole experience feel extra special. It was also lovely to enjoy some pampering in the spa, which was so relaxing. The food was delicious throughout our stay, and our room was comfortable, clean, and had everything we needed. A huge thank you to everyone at the hotel for making our break so memorable. Your exceptional hospitality meant so much to us, and we hope to visit again in the future.

I stayed 2 nights at The Village Hotel in Wirral recently and it was the first Carefree Break I had been on. I was really looking forward to this break and it was exceptional. It really gave me a well needed break and I came back full of positive happiness and experiences to share with my Mum. It made her happy too. The Hotel Staff were very pleasant and couldn't do enough for me. As well as an excellent breakfast, I was able to use the swimming pool and sauna, something I hadn't felt relaxed enough to do for a long time. I am so grateful for this Carefree Break. It was priceless, a massive Thank You to The Team. 💓

Just having some time away with a friend and not having to organise, cook, clean or even support with personal care was amazing. The staff looked after us and even gave us a glass of bubbly with breakfast. Each and every one of them treated us with warmth and a welcoming attitude. We laughed a lot and sat out in the sun watching the golf after we had spent a few hours in the spa and pool. Our bedroom was amazing with 2 big double beds and was very comfy, the best stay.

The break in routine, in a lovely place, really recharged my batteries. Not too far away, so I was able to relax knowing I could get home if there was an emergency. The hotel was warm and cozy while the weather was cold and wet. Sitting by a log fire was perfect. The staff were lovely. I couldn't fault anything. Thank you to both Carefree and The George Hotel.

My son takes up a lot of my time, and I’m happy with that, but it’s nice to have the chance to think about his sisters, my wife, and my own life now and again. I think these breaks are vital, and I’m so pleased they’re moving to two breaks a year — it’s a real game changer. We all benefit: my son gains some independence and the opportunity to make more choices… there are no losers her

Interestingly, for me, there was such a noticeable improvement in my sleep in the hotel, which happened the last time I took a break. I’ve realised I need a new mattress, and this may improve long-term insomnia that has been ruining my life. I cannot afford to go away without the charity of others. It felt wonderful to have such a luxurious hotel to stay in, and I appreciated the yummy food at breakfast. I tasted the best pastries I’ve ever had, and it got me back in the gym, and I have started using the gym at home again after losing the habit. It was great spending quality time with my friend, as friends often take a back seat in my busy life.

Caring for my husband is a full-time job and quite tiring. The break took away some of the stress. The main difference for me was being able to enjoy uninterrupted sleep. The hotel was lovely and the staff very helpful. So overall the break was successful and I found it beneficial. Thank you.

It felt special to get away from everything with my husband without a big financial cost that would have added to our stress. It felt like a gift and I was very grateful, like it was a recognition of my caring role. We felt well looked after and came away more refreshed and more connected to each other

I'm alone, so I socialise very little. Getting even a very mini break away from regular day-to-day caring responsibilities to just relax, read, walk out, and just not think of anything other than me - what I want to do for a short while - is wonderful. The hotel I chose was comfortable, with good food, and a nice walk around the golfing joggers’ route, which was lovely. All very much appreciated.

I really appreciated my night away, to be able to not be responsible, to put myself first to be able to go for a swim thank you

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.

My 2 night break at The Village Hotel Nottingham gave me chance to unwind and relax. Thank you for the opportunity, I really appreciate it 😊

Getting away with a long-term friend who is also a carer was vital for both of us at this time. We were able to spend quality time being ourselves and not just someone’s carer. I haven’t laughed so much in years!

Instantly, I felt the anxiety of my caring role fall off. I was able to tend to my needs and well-being - I slowed down. I ate healthily and mindfully, exercised, accessed culture and learning, and looked after my appearance. I felt like a whole human again. I had time to focus on myself without worrying too much about what was happening at home, although I did provide support via texts on a few occasions. When I got back, even though some of the stress I recognised settled in fairly fast, I also felt much more resilient (I hope it lasts a long time!) and able to cope. I came back with a renewed determination to focus more on my own well-being and goals in life. The hotel was a great choice for me as it has a well-equipped fitness center including a pool and sauna, and to my most pleasant surprise, the facilities and breakfast were all included in my booking. It was modern, clean, and comfortable, and every single member of staff was exceptional. It was my first ever break since I became a carer, and it was a transformational experience. Thank you so much for making it possible!

It gave me the chance to get away and break the routine that I have to follow. I feel better disposed toward my wife after a break. The hotel staff were helpful in all areas and made me feel welcome.

It gave us the opportunity to spend quality time together and get a good night's sleep, recharge our batteries, and feel refreshed to continue with our caring duties. Thank you!

I was able to sleep all night, 10 hours one night. The break at Lumley Castle made me feel glamorous and normal again, not just a carer. ME in fact. I did miss my husband though. The room was warm. The food good and dinner at night was lovely in a magnificent setting. I am relaxed now and looking forward to picking my husband up from respite care.

It was nice to relax away from responsibility and just think about myself for once. I went on my own (the first time) I was so nervous I nearly didn't go but I arrived and felt safe and relaxed at the hotel. I even sat on my own in the bar. Can't wait to book my next break.

Remember, there is a "YOU" in your life. Feeling rejuvenated by taking the time to think about yourself allows you to care for others even better and with renewed enthusiasm. Wonderful, truly wonderful!

The break was really relaxing, I was able to spend peaceful quality time with my partner and not have to worry or stress over being a carer

Just knowing that a break is coming does wonders. It does soften my attitude to my wife as things do get very stressed. The hotel was great and catered for all your needs.

I am a lone Carer and always have to take my son everywhere. I have never been able to meet a partner due to my son's needs. Going away for a break without him was amazing. Just taking time to reflect on myself was fabulous. The food, wine, and spa were excellent. A big thanks to everyone for organising this break.

It was important to ourselves as carers for our son, as it allowed us to take time away together and prioritise our own wellbeing. One of the hotel staff said they were proud to be part of the scheme, and to be the only one in the South West. This in turn helped us to feel valued.

This break was so important to me as I felt so tired beforehand. The break gave me the opportunity to relax in a calming, peaceful, scenic area of outstanding beauty. I felt re-energised just sitting by the open fire, strolling through the beautiful landscaped gardens, and sitting on a bench on the shorefront, enjoying the stunning views and peaceful moments of calmness. I would definitely recommend a Carefree break to any other unpaid carers, as it’s so easy for us to neglect our own health and well-being when caring for others. I feel like my identity and smile have been found through such a wonderful experience, just relaxing on my break.