Wall of Love

Sometimes, as a carer, you feel so isolated and alone, you feel that no one cares about the struggles you're going through. These breaks show you that people do care about our wellbeing, and just being away from pain and suffering for one night makes all the difference to our mental health. I would also like to say what a beautiful experience we had at the Chesford Grange Hotel, everything was perfect. The staff were friendly, the food was delicious, and the facilities were great. Thank you to Carefree and thank you to all at Chesford Grange.

I needed to get away for a day or so. I didn’t manage the two nights as my daughter needed a bit of help. I am struggling a little at the moment, as a few people around me need help and only one of me. The hotel room was wonderful, lovely, clean and comfortable. Breakfast and staff amazing. Very warm welcome.

Really enjoyed the break. I took my husband who is a big support to my caring role. I felt relaxed and spoilt. The hotel was lovely and not far to walk into the centre for leisurely time.

It was important to be able to switch off, relax for the night and have a moment to myself

I am truly grateful to have had this Carefree break, its given me a chance to pause, reflect and renew where I am in life, in caring. The hotel went above and beyond in accommodating my children and I.

Thank you so much Carefree for allowing me to be able to have a break. The hotel was great, excellent hotel room, comfortable, welcoming and the staff were very friendly. It has made a big difference in my wellbeing, Thanks again to all concerned.

This break was just what was needed at this time. Stress has been building up, so the break comes at the right time. My thanks go to the hotel for caring so much in giving a well-needed break to career. Please pass on our sincere thank you to the Q-Hotel Group for their care and compassion for those in a lesser position than themselves. A big thank you to the Carefree team is a must. We really appreciate your hard work on behalf of us carers. would definitely go back if we get the chance. We went to the Cambridge University Botanical Gardens - lovely.😊

I haven't had a break from my caring role before, and as I have 2 young children, it can be tricky to manage everything. The Carefree break helped me to take a full day and night away for rest and recuperation, which is exactly what I needed. Being a carer can cause a lot of stress, so the break is really important to find balance and focus on myself for once. The hotel was lovely, it was quiet, and the facilities were very relaxing. Staff were very kind and helpful. I would recommend this hotel to anyone needing some downtime to relax. Thank you so much!

Thank you for this opportunity, it has made a huge difference in my life. I will always be grateful to Carefree. I have something to look forward, I can relax and have time to myself.

I needed this break so that I could take a moment to breathe, recharge, reset. The days before the break were spent justifying the time away (to myself). Feeling guilty and almost regretting my decision to do this, but in the end... it was worth it. Hotel, grounds and general facilities were nice, weather was good and room was comfortable. I was well rested and well fed. Thank you 😊

We stayed at the Tavistock Hotel in London. The staff were wonderful, and the hotel was in a great location — couldn’t fault it. They had a lovely bar/lounge area to relax in. To have this time off from caring duties has done me a power of good. I feel able to carry on. Thank you so much.

The break enabled me to read a book, take a bath, eat and just breathe all uninterrupted and with no demands. I rarely get time just to breathe and be on my own.

It was important to go on my break so that I could refresh and come back home feeling lighter. I was able to get some rest without having to worry or listen out for my son, as I would have done at home. Being able to take part in some self care reminded me that I can’t pour from an empty cup and highlighted the need to push for additional support. The hotel was amazing; it was a clean and inviting environment. All of the staff were warm and welcoming, always willing to help. Stratford Manor was fantastic and I would definitely go back again. Thank you very much!!

This trip really gave me the opportunity to take a break from my caring duties and allowed me to recharge my batteries.

The break was timely as l've had a busy month with various health appointments for the people l care for. It offered me space to slow down, sleep and gain perspective of the bigger picture. The hotel and its facilities were much appreciated.

Was lovely to be able to relax and take time for myself, not worrying about the person I care for. The hotel was lovely and staff were so polite.

I would like to say a thank you to all involved in organising my break, and especially the hotel for offering this really wonderful and kind experience. I never get away without my daughter and felt guilty booking it. It was so worth it, and when I was there I realised how needed it was. The hotel staff were all so lovely and helpful, nothing too much trouble. I fully recharged and felt better emotionally and physically in myself, and was calmer for my daughter when I returned. Thank you so much for offering these opportunities.

It was good to relax and not have to constantly think about what I have to do for someone else. I appreciated having a choice of meals and being able to eat without rushing or thinking about what needs to be done next. The hotel was lovely, and it was clean. The staff were very friendly and helpful. I hope to go there in the future.

Being away from the person I care for, gave me a fresh breath of fresh air. Time to breathe and take time out for myself without having to worry, knowing they were in good hands. Getting up in my own time and taking time to look after myself and taking my time without rushing, was just lovely and for that I thank the Carefree team.

The timing of the break was perfect for my husband and me to reconnect. Lately, I feel like I’ve spent more time with my dad than with my husband, so this was much needed. The hotel was lovely, the spa area was fabulous, and the breakfast was really great. We had dinner both nights there, which was a real treat. I feel more able to cope in my caring role now, refreshed after the break, and we even managed a bit of sightseeing too. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to get away physically, even if not quite emotionally.

I’m a disabled lady and an unpaid carer looking after my 87 partially blind mom. It does take a lot out of me as I’ve got many health issues myself, so allowing me a Carefree break helps me to just be able to relax & unwind, ready for when I return.

The break was vital for my mental and physical well-being. I was absolutely exhausted. I stayed at Telford Hotel Golf and Spa. All the staff were very welcoming and helpful. It was only for one night, but I made the most of it, spending most of my time in the spa getting pampered. Afterwards i felt rejuvenated and ready to go back to my caring duties. It showed me how much I do need a break regularly, so thank you very much for giving me this opportunity.

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.

It once again came at the right time, somehow! I care for my 91-year-old father, who has Alzheimer’s, but at the beginning of December, my husband had a stroke and was in hospital for five days. The impact of caring for both of them was much greater than I expected, both physically and emotionally. The break away was very relaxing. We ate meals at the hotel — the food was lovely, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The spa area was fabulous. I didn’t want to travel too far in case I needed to come back in an emergency. Perfect — thank you so much.

It was a lovely room and hotel, friendly staff and service ☺️ it was nice to get away from responsibilities for a couple of days

The break was so important to me because I hadn't had a break in a long time and I really needed it. I am so grateful I had this opportunity to have this break. The hotel was amazing — I really loved it, and so was the service.

I have been really happy with my break away, the hotel was great the staff were wonderful. I feel a bit better after the break, it's most appreciated, thanks.

Thank you for the lovely break. It Has been very difficult past 2 years after loss of my father, 6 weeks ago my sister passed away battling cancer . The pain is always there also having to care of my daughter myself. The scenery made me feel special, I was able to use facilities like jacuzzi and sauna.The staff were very helpful and kind, bedroom large and spacious. It was a wonderful break and I wish I could stay longer.

My mind was congested with ongoing responsibilities and demands. Although I was physically functioning, I was an emotional wreck, full of anxiety, depression, and stress, lacking in sleep, support, and rest. This break allowed me to sleep, swim, relax, pamper myself, and most importantly, eat food undisturbed and prepared by others. I have loved my 2-night stay, which enabled me to fully rest without being persistently called upon. The hotel room was warm and cosy. The spa was fabulous, and I enjoyed the jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room throughout the day. Now I am back home, I feel re-energised and recharged to take on any tasks that had previously drained me. My friend who accompanied me enjoyed herself too, and we had a good giggle like we did years ago. My son has noticed a difference in my appearance and behaviour since I returned home. I truly appreciate this break and I thank you and the hotel for giving me the opportunity to both rest and remember who I am, aside from being a carer.

My break gave me much needed rest and time for myself. It helped me feel refreshed, less stress, and better able to care for my loved one . The hotel was comfortable, staff very friendly and welcoming and made the experience even more relaxing.

The break was important because in the last 6 months, I have become ill myself, and I took the chance to relax and pamper myself. On the whole, the hotel staff were friendly and helpful.

Thank you to Carefree - I managed to get away from everything for one night. The break did wonders for my mental health, even though I chose to stay close to home since it was my first time away from my son. I had a relaxing time and loved every bit of it.

Having support and a chance for a night away was slightly overwhelming for me and I was nervous about going, with that said I couldn’t of been more happy I went, I’m so grateful to have been given the chance to have ‘me time’. I felt relaxed and calm, the hotel was beautiful and the staff so helpful, and the food was amazing! It was lovely walking around Stratford seeing the sights properly without worry or rushing. Thank you so much 💜

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.

It was a beautiful hotel in a wonderful location. I was able to relax, walk around the grounds in the fresh air, read, and eat meals without clock-watching or rushing. There were no time restrictions. I even managed to visit extended family nearby. Breakfast was included, and the food was wonderful. The peace and quiet were a joy. The hotel staff were helpful and friendly - I couldn’t have asked for more. Thank you for a refreshing two-day break. I am very grateful for the opportunity to de-stress and go back refreshed, ready to start again.

My break was important to bring my focus back to me again. I do have health problems myself, and caring for my daughter can be mentally and physically draining. It was wonderful to rest and put my feet up. The hotel was wonderful - clean, luxurious, and the staff were very friendly. I would highly recommend the hotel. A big thank you to the hotel for their recognition of us carers, and to Carefree for your dedication to us carers. Your good work will always be needed. Thank you so much.

Without Carefree, I would never have thought of taking a break. I didn't want to travel too far from home, so 10miles down the road suited us fine. The hotel and facilities were brilliant. It was clean and had the basic necessities. I needed the break because my body was beginning to feel all sorts of pains, and I had been ill for a month prior to attending and was concerned that I wouldn't be able to attend, however, I am so glad I did. The break has done me the world of good and given me a new lease of life. I chose the date because it was also my birthday, so it was an added bonus, which I thoroughly enjoyed, even the staff at the hotel acknowledged my birthday. I was left a surprise complimentary voucher for two drinks at their Pub and Grill bar.

The break gave me some “me time” to think and put things into perspective. I slept very well for 2 nights and came back feeling refreshed and recharged. The hotel and staff exceptional, very good breakfast too. Thank you to the staff who were friendly and supportive throughout my stay.

We haven't been away as a couple for years, it was always as a family with the person I care for. She's a little better to be left with someone so we made an effort as a Carefree break was on offer, and it motivated us to go. We stayed at an excellent hotel in Stratford upon Avon. Can't fault the place, very welcoming, and clean and the breakfast was good quality. Thanks to the hotel and Carefree staff. We are very grateful!

It was lovely having a short break. I wished it would have been longer but I am grateful for the time we had, Lumley Castle was so amazing and very accommodating. We even took our little dog. Thank you fo my time away.

Being able to take a short break has really improved my wellbeing. I was feeling a little down because caring can be emotionally quite hard at time. But getting away with a change of scenery without my dependent really has done me some good. Thank you Carefree and the donors.

I needed that head space, to relax and only think about myself. I was very grateful for this break, as I can't ever afford a break away

It was important for me to take a moment away from my usual caring role for some peace, a bit of respite and to recharge so I can care for my mom in a better capacity once rested. I would like to thank the staff at Oxford Belfry Hotel and Spa for their hospitality during my stay, in particular the front desk staff that checked me in upon arrival. The lady was really helpful, and kind and was able to help me locate a closer train station and local taxi services. Thank you.

The break gave me and my husband quality time together, after having a very stressful few months.

I took a friend who is not local to me and for various reasons I hadn’t seen for about 4 months. We had a lovely catch up doing what we liked. We enjoyed good food in the Hotel and had a very relaxing time. Thank you for the opportunity to escape for a couple of days back to it now!

I was able to fully relax. I had a solid 10 ½ hours sleep on my second night. It was bliss. And a swim in the pool in the morning before breakfast. It felt so decadent, and I am so very grateful. Just a tonic for my soul.

I feel I needed this break and I am glad I had. It came at a tough moment of my life.

This was a beautiful break away from the four walls I live in at home with the person I care for. It was a refreshing change to also get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and experience new surroundings, new places, and new people. Staying in a hotel made it all worthwhile, as everything was on hand, and I didn’t have to prepare anything while I was there. It was easy and very comfortable.

I managed to see my daughter who was at a university about an hour away . It was much needed time with her as I care for her sister . Things can get quite busy at home and I was still in touch with them from where I was . I felt less stressed knowing the break was paid for too . It was a lovely hotel . Staff were fabulous. I had a lovely stay .

It's been 4 years since I had a day off. Just spending one night away was so good for my mental health. One day when I could enjoy myself. I'm so grateful to both Carefree and Chesford Grange Hotel. Everything about the hotel was great.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to have a break. I am lucky enough to be able to share the caring duties with other family members, we work together throughout the week. The break came at a good time for me as I was feeling pretty exhausted. The hotel staff were very helpful and friendly. We had a lovely time.

Thank you so much for a great experience. The hotel and spa staff were friendly and helpful, I would recommend to everyone this fantastic hotel.

I really appreciated the opportunity to take a break with Carefree, The Royal George Hotel was a beautiful clean, and relaxing place to spend our break. Thank you!

Crewe Hall was an amazing hotel and the history was very interesting. The staff were friendly and supportive. The break was very needed and using the spa was refreshing and aided the relaxation. A Big Thank You.

It was so nice to get away & be looked after. We had a lovely day out before our stay too.

It was important to have a break because I was feeling very low and this was impacting on everything in the household. From the start of my break I felt I could breathe again. It was a delight because I could pamper myself with a bath, we have a wet room at home. I loved having my meals cooked and no interruptions whilst eating. The manager welcomed me, thanked me for my hard work, and wished me a great stay. A young girl called Miley was amazing in the restaurant.

The break was fantastic. To be able to chill out and not worry about watching the clock and being at people's beck and call, was good therapy for me. I would like to thank the team for organising this for me and also the Village Hotel Wirral staff for making our stay a very pleasant one.

I really appreciated the break it was just what I needed and the hotel was above and beyond helpful. The room was lovely and the facilities were beyond what I expected. Full marks to everyone involved in my break.

It was a lovely relaxing time and enabled me to totally chill without feeling anxious. Just lovely to get away. Really lovely.

A break was important to me because it gave me something to look forward to. It enabled me to plan a get away without thinking too much about the difficult decisions involved in getting away. Getting away with the help of Carefree felt safe. It was great that a friend could come along with me otherwise it would have been a lonely. The bus service was great so we visited a local museum, a garden centre and looked into the posh charity shops. The staff at the hotel were so lovely, helpful and cheerful. They made the whole experience special. Most importantly, the experience was affordable and I shall cherish the time I had in Liverpool. Thank you all so very much.

My break allowed me to relax, and the hotel staff was great. I want to take the opportunity to thank everyone for your help and support, it is much appreciated.

The break was important to me because it made me realise I was making excuses for not looking after myself by hiding behind my cared-for person. I am glad that I gave myself permission to stop what I was doing, e.g cleaning the house all the time after work, and take time out to book the break without guilt. I loved the hotel, it certainly made me feel pampered with the access to the gym, sauna, steam room, and breakfast, (compliments to all who made it possible to provide this). I also appreciated that there were spa treatments as well on offer. It has helped me to realise that I do deserve time for me. I am now making small daily changes to put myself higher up my priority list. Thank you all.

We are so grateful to carefree and the hotel to give us this wonderful experience! Can’t thank you and the hotel enough for really looking after us every step of the way. We both had a wonderful time and the weather was perfect Thank you again

The hotel was clean and lovely. It made a considerable difference to me. I felt relaxed and appreciated time for myself. Top marks for the hotel. Thank you Carefree for providing this facility.

This break came at the perfect time when I really needed it. On the downside, things soon went back to normal, but I returned refreshed after having a couple of good nights' sleep. I'm very grateful for this opportunity. Thank you so much!

The break was important because I have been feeling exhausted. It was wonderful to relax in a different environment and have breakfast cooked for me! It helped me recharge without feeling guilty. Thank you! The hotel was fantastic, with so much to do and lovely staff.

The break I recently took was very relaxing. I felt at ease and was able to think more clearly about things in general. I was able to have a little "me time," which is important. The hotel was a calm, relaxing place—very clean, and the staff were welcoming and professional.

As an unpaid carer for two family members, many people just assume it's my responsibility, but being an unpaid carer means sacrificing a wage to ensure my loved ones are supported and looked after. This break made me feel valued and allowed me to spend quality time with my husband.

The break was beautiful. I took my daughter, who has always been there for me, and spending time with her was lovely. Your kindness and support gave us both a wonderful experience, and the hotel was great.

My break was a well deserved 'me time' break. I care for my daughter, near enough 24/7. I also have custody of her son, who also has autism, so I rarely get a break. Carefree helped me to unwind and relax.

I really enjoyed my break away. It help improve my understanding of how to balance time between looking after my mum, and knowing I must take care of myself. I’m very grateful for the time away.

I just want to say, thank you so much. It's made a big difference to my mood. I came back more happy with lots of energy.

Thank you for the reception staff at Village Hotel Bracknell, who treated us with respect and were more than happy to help when there was a slight problem with the initial room we got allocated.

I just want to say a massive, thanks, for this lovely gesture and healing for my mental health. It was much needed and I really appreciate it. THANKS, MANAGEMENT AND TEAM FOR OFFERING THIS BREAK .

To be free, free of mostly repetitive questions or remarks! the hotel was good and helpful. Good quality food.

Thank you for giving me a chance to have a carefree break. It was my first carefree break in Dudley. It was the best!

It gave me breathing space and time to find myself again. Thank you so much.

I am very grateful to Carefree for giving me this time out!

It was great to have some personal me time. It was also an opportunity to recharge my batteries. Thank you for providing this opportunity.

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.

I had the best time ever, it was lovely. It made me feel like myself again, and I connected with my best friend, thank you so much xx

I enjoyed it so much - lovely hotel, friendly staff, lovely room. Amazing to wake up after a lovely sleep and not have to rush in our usual crazy routine, and to have breakfast made for us without clearing up and sorting medications. My daughter absolutely loved visiting the butterfly farm where we have never been before due to looking after our son, so this break gave her new opportunities. So grateful 🩷

It came at just the right time having had several months with no real respite. After having some difficult, stressful weeks recently, it helped me to recharge so I was ready to start again. Thank you, it’s much appreciated.

From the heart, thank you very much. The break has made me realise that I need to take care of myself more. I was on the verge of walking out, but the 2 days you gave me... you really don't understand how needed they were. Carefree you are life savers and I cannot thank you enough.

Was just nice to be able to switch off and relax with my husband and not have to constantly be worrying about my my mother and be on call 24/7. Thank you for helping me take a break and recharge my batteries it has done my wellbeing a power of good.

Amazing booking process and so easy. Thank you for your dedicated time.

The Carefree break gave me a chance to have some me time and feel valued. It was such an amazing experience. Without this break I wouldn't have been able to look after my wellbeing. I appreciated every minute from start to finish.

The hotel had a spa and as it was my special birthday I treated myself to a spa treatment which was lovely.

You made me feel like royalty , thank you so much for allowing this opportunity to take a break without worrying 🙏🏽

Being able to rest and relax. Knowing my loved one is being looked after. The difference it made enabled me to breathe and think that on my return I can continue taking care of my loved one. Thank you, the break was so needed.

I appreciate just being able to be me for a while.

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.

I am very grateful to Carefree for caring about carers and providing a supportive service. The service is invaluable. Thank you so much 😊

Thank you for caring for the carers, we often lose sight of our own needs and often need to be encouraging to take time for ourselves. I haven't heard of any other services that provides this type of service to its members that are Carers, thank you and your participating hotels for their commitment too. This break really did mean a lot to help me not to forget that I am worthy of care and attention too.

I enjoy everything.

This break was a lovely introduction to the Carefree scheme and has underlined to me the importance of trying to take breaks on a regular basis.

All smooth as clockwork. I had freedom.

I think Carefree is a wonderful thing for carers who are struggling. I really appreciate this service. Thank you, so much.

Relaxing break thank you so much for this offer. Looking forward to more breaks.

I like to say thank you for being kind.

To rest and feel better in myself is everything. Thank you.

Getting time for myself and enjoying time spent in my own company for a change was perfect.

Breathing space. Thank you.

I was able to relax, without having to worry about any responsibilities. I really just spent a night focusing on myself and recharging.