Wall of Love

See what our carers are saying about us

Visit our website
Auri's avatar

Amazing break ❤️ Thank You

- Auri
Andrea's avatar

It was lovely just to be me.

- Andrea
Debbie's avatar

It's so lovely to have quality time with my husband

- Debbie
Marie's avatar

Lovely staff, very helpful. Made my stay so relaxed 🤩

- Marie
Michelle's avatar

It made a huge difference and was really needed, thank you

- Michelle
Sarah's avatar

Helps to make you feel valued in the role that you carry out.

- Sarah
Aliesha's avatar

Gave me time to unwind, reflect, plan, and be a better parent

- Aliesha
Kathleen's avatar

It was just nice to feel like "me " again with no stress and worry.

- Kathleen
Sophie's avatar

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

- Sophie
Adele's avatar

It was lovely to spend time with my husband it was our wedding anniversary

- Adele
Colin's avatar

Good to get away before these breaks it was seven years I was last anywhere.

- Colin
Chelsea's avatar

Lovely hotel and much needed break after 8 and a half years without a night off.

- Chelsea
Kerry's avatar

Having this break has made a massive difference in my mental and physical health.

- Kerry
Gloria's avatar

It was like a breather of fresh air getting away from constant demands and routine!

- Gloria
Kate's avatar

It was a much-needed break, and I felt stress-free, more human and part of society.

- Kate
Eleanor's avatar

It was lovely to get away and actually sit down and think about my own needs for a while.

- Eleanor
Raymond's avatar

Its an absolutely fantastic charity and allows carers that wee bit of time to themselves.

- Raymond
Samantha's avatar

I got to spend quality time with my son and concentrate solely on him which is priceless.

- Samantha
Michelle's avatar

Absolutely amazing break. Hotel was wonderful, staff were very helpful, friendly and warm.

- Michelle
Laura's avatar

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

- Laura
Marie's avatar

I was at breaking point. The 2 nights away were just what I needed to recharge and push on.

- Marie
Gemma's avatar

Really enjoyed my break away, without this I wouldn’t have been able to afford it. Thank you

- Gemma
Julie's avatar

I was able to visit my son in London which I wouldn’t have been able to do without this break.

- Julie
Peter's avatar

I really appreciated spending time away from my situation at home. Even the journey was a break.

- Peter
Paul's avatar

A chance to unwind, think about what I'd like to do & only worry about home when I get back.

- Paul
Fred's avatar

The hotel staff at the Gonville were very helpful with a can-do attitude. Would stay there again

- Fred
Victoria's avatar

It was very much needed so I could reset myself, the staff at the hotel were lovely, thank you :)

- Victoria
Lorraine's avatar

I could focus on my own mental health and well-being to be able to make caring for my son easier.

- Lorraine
Sarah's avatar

My break left me feeling revitalised. The extra energy has boosted my relationship with my child.

- Sarah
Rosie's avatar

Thank you. I felt like a weight had been lifted, and I had permission to think of myself for once.

- Rosie
Lindsay's avatar

The hotel was great and welcoming.The break away made me relax and unwind which was what I needed.

- Lindsay
Katie's avatar

We went to celebrate Valentine’s Day, something we wouldn’t have been able to do without this break.

- Katie
Teresa's avatar

It was very important for us both to get away for a break and change of scene in lovely surroundings

- Teresa
Louise's avatar

Came at a time when I really needed a break. It made a world of difference and reset my brain and body.

- Louise
Ann's avatar

Absolutely enjoyed ME TIME. The feeling of freedom was so rewarding. Helped me relax. Good quality sleep

- Ann
Jennifer's avatar

A bit anxious about leaving my son but It felt so good being away from caring and having time for myself

- Jennifer
Samantha's avatar

I felt relaxed and refreshed, and came back feeling more able to cope and a bit stronger than I was before

- Samantha
Siu's avatar

My relationship with the person that I care for is improving after the break. Thank you for Village hotel.

- Siu
Sarwat's avatar

The break was important for me to find myself again and remember that I need to make more time for myself.

- Sarwat
Suzanne's avatar

Having this break was fantastic, not having to do our daily routines and just relax makes a huge difference

- Suzanne
Helen's avatar

It gave me time to breathe and just look after my needs, which is very difficult to do with my caring duties.

- Helen
Laura's avatar

The hotel was lovely, friendly staff and made us feel welcome absolutely no different to fully paying guests,

- Laura
Maud's avatar

This break pulled me from the verge of crisis. It was a short break that gave me the ability to breathe again.

- Maud
Martin's avatar

Thank you Carefree and your partner hotels, such a special gift you are giving. I really, really appreciate it.

- Martin
Carolyn's avatar

I got to spend time with my daughter on my own, going shopping, out to the cinema, and out for lunch and dinner.

- Carolyn
Michaela's avatar

It was just so precious to have time to relax , swim , steam room and sauna . Nobdy needed me . This was a luxury

- Michaela
Laura's avatar

We as a family were at breaking point. The break did us the world of good to just have some peace and a recharge.

- Laura
Alba's avatar

I’m so stressed from being a carer — too tired and too abandoned — and this break made me feel like myself again.

- Alba
Dave's avatar

It gave me a chance to relax, although I was still worried about my son while I was away I still had a lovely time

- Dave
Victoria's avatar

It was fantastic to have a break. The hotel was fantastic. The staff was fantastic and it helps you feel refreshed.

- Victoria
Auri's avatar

Amazing break ❤️ Thank You

- Auri
Andrea's avatar

It was lovely just to be me.

- Andrea
Debbie's avatar

It's so lovely to have quality time with my husband

- Debbie
Marie's avatar

Lovely staff, very helpful. Made my stay so relaxed 🤩

- Marie
Michelle's avatar

It made a huge difference and was really needed, thank you

- Michelle
Sarah's avatar

Helps to make you feel valued in the role that you carry out.

- Sarah
Aliesha's avatar

Gave me time to unwind, reflect, plan, and be a better parent

- Aliesha
Kathleen's avatar

It was just nice to feel like "me " again with no stress and worry.

- Kathleen
Sophie's avatar

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

- Sophie
Adele's avatar

It was lovely to spend time with my husband it was our wedding anniversary

- Adele
Colin's avatar

Good to get away before these breaks it was seven years I was last anywhere.

- Colin
Chelsea's avatar

Lovely hotel and much needed break after 8 and a half years without a night off.

- Chelsea
Kerry's avatar

Having this break has made a massive difference in my mental and physical health.

- Kerry
Gloria's avatar

It was like a breather of fresh air getting away from constant demands and routine!

- Gloria
Kate's avatar

It was a much-needed break, and I felt stress-free, more human and part of society.

- Kate
Eleanor's avatar

It was lovely to get away and actually sit down and think about my own needs for a while.

- Eleanor
Raymond's avatar

Its an absolutely fantastic charity and allows carers that wee bit of time to themselves.

- Raymond
Samantha's avatar

I got to spend quality time with my son and concentrate solely on him which is priceless.

- Samantha
Michelle's avatar

Absolutely amazing break. Hotel was wonderful, staff were very helpful, friendly and warm.

- Michelle
Laura's avatar

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

- Laura
Marie's avatar

I was at breaking point. The 2 nights away were just what I needed to recharge and push on.

- Marie
Gemma's avatar

Really enjoyed my break away, without this I wouldn’t have been able to afford it. Thank you

- Gemma
Julie's avatar

I was able to visit my son in London which I wouldn’t have been able to do without this break.

- Julie
Peter's avatar

I really appreciated spending time away from my situation at home. Even the journey was a break.

- Peter
Paul's avatar

A chance to unwind, think about what I'd like to do & only worry about home when I get back.

- Paul
Fred's avatar

The hotel staff at the Gonville were very helpful with a can-do attitude. Would stay there again

- Fred
Victoria's avatar

It was very much needed so I could reset myself, the staff at the hotel were lovely, thank you :)

- Victoria
Lorraine's avatar

I could focus on my own mental health and well-being to be able to make caring for my son easier.

- Lorraine
Sarah's avatar

My break left me feeling revitalised. The extra energy has boosted my relationship with my child.

- Sarah
Rosie's avatar

Thank you. I felt like a weight had been lifted, and I had permission to think of myself for once.

- Rosie
Lindsay's avatar

The hotel was great and welcoming.The break away made me relax and unwind which was what I needed.

- Lindsay
Katie's avatar

We went to celebrate Valentine’s Day, something we wouldn’t have been able to do without this break.

- Katie
Teresa's avatar

It was very important for us both to get away for a break and change of scene in lovely surroundings

- Teresa
Louise's avatar

Came at a time when I really needed a break. It made a world of difference and reset my brain and body.

- Louise
Ann's avatar

Absolutely enjoyed ME TIME. The feeling of freedom was so rewarding. Helped me relax. Good quality sleep

- Ann
Jennifer's avatar

A bit anxious about leaving my son but It felt so good being away from caring and having time for myself

- Jennifer
Samantha's avatar

I felt relaxed and refreshed, and came back feeling more able to cope and a bit stronger than I was before

- Samantha
Siu's avatar

My relationship with the person that I care for is improving after the break. Thank you for Village hotel.

- Siu
Sarwat's avatar

The break was important for me to find myself again and remember that I need to make more time for myself.

- Sarwat
Suzanne's avatar

Having this break was fantastic, not having to do our daily routines and just relax makes a huge difference

- Suzanne
Helen's avatar

It gave me time to breathe and just look after my needs, which is very difficult to do with my caring duties.

- Helen
Laura's avatar

The hotel was lovely, friendly staff and made us feel welcome absolutely no different to fully paying guests,

- Laura
Maud's avatar

This break pulled me from the verge of crisis. It was a short break that gave me the ability to breathe again.

- Maud
Martin's avatar

Thank you Carefree and your partner hotels, such a special gift you are giving. I really, really appreciate it.

- Martin
Carolyn's avatar

I got to spend time with my daughter on my own, going shopping, out to the cinema, and out for lunch and dinner.

- Carolyn
Michaela's avatar

It was just so precious to have time to relax , swim , steam room and sauna . Nobdy needed me . This was a luxury

- Michaela
Laura's avatar

We as a family were at breaking point. The break did us the world of good to just have some peace and a recharge.

- Laura
Alba's avatar

I’m so stressed from being a carer — too tired and too abandoned — and this break made me feel like myself again.

- Alba
Dave's avatar

It gave me a chance to relax, although I was still worried about my son while I was away I still had a lovely time

- Dave
Victoria's avatar

It was fantastic to have a break. The hotel was fantastic. The staff was fantastic and it helps you feel refreshed.

- Victoria
Leoni avatar
Leoni
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.
Victoria avatar
Victoria
As a carer for my elderly mother and 2 young neurodiverse children, I rarely get 5 minutes to myself, and can't work, so I have very little spare money. These breaks mean I can go away for very little expense, and just take care of myself, have some quality 'me' time. I came home feeling relaxed, refreshed and feeling better about caring for others again. Also knowing that I may be able to take another weekend away towards the end of the year too, so have something to look forward to!
Ian avatar
Ian
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
Maxine avatar
Maxine
I can't explain how important this break was. It made a huge difference as I really felt that I was on the verge of a breakdown. So many services advise to look after yourself, but don't offer anything. It is impossible and you constantly bang your head against a brick wall with social services, camhs etc. I thank the hotel for a lovely clean room and good food, and offering this unique, priceless opportunity.

Breaks for unpaid carers

If you're a full-time carer, why not give yourself some time and space to look after your own wellbeing? Register for donated mini breaks today.

Start Free Registration
Sharon avatar
Sharon
It was perfect from start to finish. Booking was easy. There were no issues travelling to the hotel. Reception staff - Emma, was warm and welcoming. The room was lovely. Breakfast on both mornings was delicious. Every staff member was friendly and helpful. I was very well looked after by everyone. It was such a joyous break. The bar/restaurant food was amazing. The service was excellent. I had such a lovely time and am so grateful for it.
Emma avatar
Emma
Our breaks as carers are our lifeline! We never get a break unless we use Carefree. They are an amazing thing, and we are so grateful! 4 kids with neurodiversity is 24/7, and we long for these 2 nights away! The hotel was great, and so was the breakfast!
Kevin avatar
Kevin
The break allowed me collect my thoughts and relax. It allowed me to concentrate on myself without having concerns for partner. The hotel had exactly what I required. A Spa to relax in and a quiet room. Overall an amazing break.
Zhenreenah avatar
Zhenreenah
Thank you for the opportunity to share feedback on my recent break. The break was extremely important to me as a carer, as it provided a rare opportunity to step away from the daily responsibilities and pressures of my caring role. Having dedicated time to rest and recharge allowed me to focus on my own wellbeing, something that is often difficult to prioritise. The experience made a meaningful difference both physically and emotionally. I returned feeling refreshed, less stressed, and better able to cope with my caring responsibilities. The time away helped me regain perspective and energy, which has had a positive impact on my overall resilience and mental health. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the hotel. The staff were welcoming, accommodating, and understanding, which made the stay comfortable and relaxing. The quality of the accommodation and the peaceful environment contributed greatly to the positive experience. I am very grateful for this opportunity and for the support provided to carers through this programme. Thank you very much.
Shirley avatar
Shirley
The break was important as I sometimes feel pressured with my caring responsibilities. Some ‘me’ time was very exciting, and the facilities and staff at the Village Hotel Blackpool made the experience wonderful. I was able to swim in the outdoor pool, which was relaxing and an absolute treat.
Jaycee avatar
Jaycee
Having this break came at a time when I had been feeling very "full" and weighed down, and emotionally and mentally exhausted. Just being in a different space and not having a list of things to tick off was so refreshing. It actually helped me to switch off, be myself and focus on my simple needs. This made me realise the importance of making the time and space (even if it's going for a walk) to separate myself from my caring responsibilities, which is an important part of my self-care. Thank you so much
Peter avatar
Peter
The break was fantastic and gave myself and my wife an opportunity to recharge our batteries. The hotel staff were fantastic and made us feel very welcome. Thank you for continuing to provide these opportunities.
Stephanie avatar
Stephanie
It was an exceptionally well-timed break. I care for my son, who is 19 and has autism. In the past 3 years, my mum/dad, sister and our 2 family dogs have passed away. I felt completely bereaved and inconsolable for the last year. I have been seeking help from friends, courses, etc. The carers society is amazing, and I’m well known as I nursed my late partner till he passed 17 years ago. I’ve been a lone parent, and it’s had its challenges. At the ripe old age of 60, I started a new chapter. I started back at work and completed my Angelic Reiki course in late December. Crewe Hall is stunning. My friend joined me, and I have a friend from Crewe who met us for dinner the first night. The place/facilities are amazing. The staff, food and company were phenomenal. I felt relaxed for the first time in ages. Without these breaks, life has been hard, but I feel so blessed to have access to such resources. I came home to find my son has completed his Internship. It’s been the start to a new year that I’ll never forget. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Carol avatar
Carol
The breaks are very important to me and my husband who supports me in my caring role, they are much needed. The hotel was lovely, an amazing location, but most of all the staff were wonderful, very helpful, friendly and professional.

Breaks for unpaid carers

If you're a full-time carer, why not give yourself some time and space to look after your own wellbeing? Register for donated mini breaks today.

Start Free Registration
Natasha avatar
Natasha
It meant that I could have some scheduled 'me' time, and it made me feel more valued. The hotel was incredibly quiet, and all of the people working there were very kind and friendly
Julie avatar
Julie
This break allowed me to spend some time with my mum which is difficult due to my caring responsibilities. We felt totally spoilt . The hotel and facilities and staff were all amazing and I came back feel refreshed and ready to go again . Thank you SO much .
Sarwat avatar
Sarwat
It was an excellent break, taken with my elder son who is a young carer as well as caring for his brother. It was relaxing for both of us and we got some wonderful time to explore London. It’s impossible to travel with my younger Level 3 autistic son.
Allyson avatar
Allyson
I was physically and mentally exhausted. Despite a very long drive l went to a place I love. Always helps me mental state. I feel more able to cope now, still tired but not exhausted! I did tack on an extra night coming back at a travelodge to avoid 2 days of travelling for 1 day off. The hotel was comfortable, clean and in a fantastic location. Staff were brilliant
Flora avatar
Flora
This break was just incredible for me. I went to the Globe for the first time, and I saw a West End show for the first time! I learned how to use Uber finally, and it was not hard at all! My daughter, who is a young carer and also needs a break, decided to come with me (it was half term here). As you know from my previous feedback this year, it was just not proving feasible for me and my husband to go away overnight together this year, and every time we booked a break and arranged overnight care, we ended up leaving after dinner! So he stayed at home with my cared-for person. My aunty decided to come too, and so we booked a 2nd hotel room for her, with breakfast, and we used the hotel restaurant too, as we were very tired on the first night. So we spent lots of money at the hotel! Which felt good because hopefully they will see Carefree as being a great partner to have. It's an absolutely enormous hotel, so it was really convenient to have all the facilities in-house and just great fun to see all the other tourists in the foyer and the breakfast room. It felt like being part of the world again! I really think the staff here are just wonderful, everyone from the concierges to the housekeeping and dining room bussers were so friendly. The taxis could stop right outside the door and the tube is only 5 minutes walk away. Being able to book 2 nights really made the trip possible because otherwise it would've been too much travel to visit London for us. I loved it, and I will definitely be back.
Andrea avatar
Andrea
We had a lovely time on our break. The hotel staff were great and looked after us very well, and we were able to feel much more rested than before our break.
Sally avatar
Sally
It was great to have some "me time" and to relax properly. It gave me the chance to have an adventure and explore a new city. It was a shot in the arm and made me more appreciative of the relationship I have with my partner. The Village Hotel in Bristol was brilliant. They gave me a Club Room which was really quiet and had a HUGE TV. Everybody was friendly and I didn't feel awkward having breakfast by myself.
Anna avatar
Anna
We had a lovely stay, it was peaceful, relaxing and reenergising. It cleared my head, and it felt like a reset. We’ve created some lovely memories. The staff at the hotel were lovely, and the accommodation was great.
Emma avatar
Emma
We chose a place we had visited before, and is in a good location for RHS Wisley. It meant we could spend time together, without having to think about caring for our son, and to be able to visit the gardens without having to worry about how he would manage it. Time to focus on us and our needs.

Breaks for unpaid carers

If you're a full-time carer, why not give yourself some time and space to look after your own wellbeing? Register for donated mini breaks today.

Start Free Registration
Olivia avatar
Olivia
The short break was lovely. I enjoyed some precious moments of time. It made me feel better, with renewed energy. The hotel was amazing, and the staff and customers were friendly and helpful. Thank you so much for the opportunity and your support.
Lorna avatar
Lorna
It was amazing to get a night off and feel like a person again. Thank you so much. I loved every minute, just being able to do normal day-to-day things without any stress and knowing my son was in safe hands. Hopefully family will understand now how much I need this break, as I’ve been in burnout and very unwell, and it has really affected my mental health. The break was only one night, but it definitely helped loads.
Samantha avatar
Samantha
This break was very important because our daughter is recovering from a big operation. So my caring role has been far more intense leading up to the break. The break made a difference to have more me time and some thinking space too.
Sarah avatar
Sarah
My husband and I haven't been able to share a bed at all this year as I have to sleep with my daughter. Thanks to your service we managed to spend a night together, some quality time just being a couple instead of Mum and Dad. It's so important as we often forget why we were together in the first place. Thank you.
Karen avatar
Karen
We wouldn't ever be able to afford a hotel in London so this was really special. It meant we could afford to see a show that we really wanted to see. We were upgraded to a king size room with a park view which was absolutely beautiful, I could have sat looking out of the window forever! Breakfast was plentiful and delicious and the staff were excellent. It was a magical break and I felt very spoilt!
Kathleen avatar
Kathleen
This break meant the world to me as I had just finished a wellbeing/caring with confidence course, and it gave me the time to relax and reflect on what I had just learnt. It gave me the uninterrupted time I needed to prioritise what I need to do over the next few months. ALL the staff were lovely, kind, helpful and friendly. I would also like to send a big thank you to Carole in the Spa for my treatment, which I had at the start of my break and helped with my own ailing conditions. Thank you ALL so much for the chance, it has made a big difference to me and the person I look after.
Maya avatar
Maya
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!
Kay avatar
Kay
It enabled me to spend some quality time with my partner; we don’t live together. It enabled me to have a break and rest. I actually felt that I was important and I mattered. The hotel was lovely. The staff were very helpful and kind, especially on reception when they sorted out my parking for me. Thank you. These breaks really make a big difference.
Sarah avatar
Sarah
My break was important to me, especially because I was able to spend time with my youngest daughter, who is also a young carer. I was so happy to see my daughter have two full nights of uninterrupted sleep. The beds were so comfortable. The hotel manager (possibly the restaurant manager) was so helpful and kind. There was soooooo much choice for breakfast, my daughter and I felt like we could relax and spend quality time together. We were able to play a few quiet games of dominoes in our hotel room. It was quite unusual for us to complete one game without any interruptions from my two sons, who have autism and ADHD.

Breaks for unpaid carers

If you're a full-time carer, why not give yourself some time and space to look after your own wellbeing? Register for donated mini breaks today.

Start Free Registration
Clare avatar
Clare
Being able to spend time with my husband was lovely away from both children. This enabled us to have more sleep as we were not getting up early and caring for them, and not dressing and feeding my 6-year-old son that we care for. We both felt calmer and that we could mentally switch off for an afternoon and evening, enjoying the spa facilities and the restaurant. It was lovely and extremely relaxing. Thank you, and thanks to the hotel, which provided this very inexpensive break for us, where we were well taken care of.
Rated 5 out of 5
Alison Lodder
Video transcript: Hi carefree team. Just wanted to say thank you very much for my carers break. Booking was very simple and quite easy to navigate the website. When I arrived at the hotel they were very polite and friendly and actually made me feel quite special. They recognised that I was on a carers break and they wanted to make it nice for me. I would have to mention also that the staff in the bar and grill, they actually made sure that I had a gluten free poached eggs on toast which was an extra service because I have a food allergy. So they were really looking after me there. And the hotel itself, very beautiful and the beds were very comfy and I would say that if you were going as a carer, a little tip for you would be just take a couple of things from home. I found that taking my own favourite mug and some of my own coffee and biscuits just made me feel bit more relaxed when I was in there. I also took my, my, my puzzle books and things like that just to have a little bit of a breather. I would remember to take your swimming costume too because the hotel does have a swimming pool. So I'd say the impact of this little break meant I could come home and care for my husband a bit better than previously because I was finding the last six months quite difficult. So I definitely recommend the Village Hotel in Chester and I'd definitely recommend a carefree break to, to anyone who's caring for their loved ones. Bye Bye.
Amanda avatar
Amanda
The break was important because I’m trying to build some independence in my son, who my husband and I care for. We are not usually able to afford to get away at all because I do not work while caring for our son. I took my husband with me on the break, and it made a huge difference to us together. It felt like our relationship was worth investing in, and it left us feeling closer and more “on the same side.” The hotel staff were so friendly and welcoming. Everyone said hello, good morning, and goodbye every time we saw someone. The building was beautiful, and I loved that there were so many really old features still there, like the stone window recesses downstairs and the single-glazed windows upstairs. The food was gorgeous, and the dining room was beautiful. We are so grateful to have been able to spend two nights away together in such a wonderful place. Thank you!
Helen avatar
Helen
Thank you for enabling us to have time away from our adult daughter. We could talk uninterrupted and follow our own timescale. The hotel and staff were lovely.
Melissa
Video transcript: Hi, guys. I just want to say thank you guys very, very much for the Carefree Break. It has made a difference. This is my second time attending or being part of the Carefree Break itself. And honestly, I can say that I look forward to it every year. I had so much joy when I saw the email coming closer December to say that they've now extended it so you can actually book two for the year. And I had so much joy just seeing that. But I wasn't able to book it, unfortunately, because places were far that they had and it just wasn't the right time for me to book. But, hey, this year I'm going to try to make sure I make the most of it for this year. So I've had my first one. I do look forward to the next one. But, yeah, if any partners out there see this, please continue to support the Carefree team. What they are doing is so amazing. And I ensure that I make sure spread the word to every family, every carer, every individual that I come across who I know, who may struggle and suffer in silence and may not know where to get help from, I do that as well. And as part of my role in my organization, what I run, we ensure that these are the kind of things that we do because, you know, as part of bridging the gaps, that's what we call bridge the gap. Ending digital poverty. We ensure that we connect people to platforms like this. You know, think about people who do not have access to devices or technology. How will they know about Carefree? So I make sure I make it a priority and I am a silent ambassador. You can call me, because I spread the word near and far. Social media, word of mouth, you name it, I'm spreading it to everyone so that more people can actually benefit from this. So thank you guys once again for your support. We truly appreciate you. All right, that's it from me, because I know I'll go on. So thanks, bye.
Roselyne avatar
Roselyne
This is time to connect with my daughter, who is a young carer. She can sometimes feel ignored as so much goes into caring for her brother. Two days away, just doing things that we both enjoy, gives us time to reconnect and makes her feel valued.
Joanna avatar
Joanna
It’s such a help. In our case we have been doing very expensive 1000mile round trips to visit daughter inpatient. This helped us to stay for free somewhere on that journey but without the expense. So without her with us but it helped enable us to visit her as well as having a break
Nina avatar
Nina
The break gave us some time away from our caring responsibilities to relax, enjoy, and really focus on ourselves and think about our wellbeing without worrying about anything. We felt happy and just enjoyed having some space and time to take things easy, which is rare.
Abigail avatar
Abigail
I went to London — I lived there before I became a mum and haven’t visited for years. I love art, architecture, museums… all things cultural. I went alone because I get overwhelmed easily and don’t have anyone I could imagine spending three whole days with. I got to do exactly the things I wanted to do and that I love. I visited Tate Britain and Tate Modern, which took me back to school art trips and reminded me how much wonder and joy art still brings me. I really enjoyed being at the hotel — the buffet breakfast, the squishy bed and pillows, and towels that felt like clouds. Before I went, I worried about being tired from busy days out, but I managed fine on my own. Now that I’m home, I do feel a little lonely, but the break was truly special and restorative.

Breaks for unpaid carers

If you're a full-time carer, why not give yourself some time and space to look after your own wellbeing? Register for donated mini breaks today.

Start Free Registration
Storm avatar
Storm
Before this break, I was on the verge of a breakdown. I’ve been caring for my dad for six years, who has terminal cancer that has spread to the bone. Recently, he lost his ability to walk. Alongside working and caring full-time, I felt like I was losing the will to live. I love my job, I work as a poet (though I’ve had to slow down due to my caring responsibilities)-I perform for charities and organisations. I witness some of the world’s saddest atrocities (poverty, trafficking, discrimination, etc.) and bring those experiences to donors through poetry: helping them to understand how their donations bring change. It is indeed one thing to witness what other people are going through. However, when you are faced with an ongoing challenge in your own home, including an increasing allocentric load, the burden becomes unbearable. Having a break and being able to do what I love, such as reading, writing and going on a run, has been the push I needed to keep going. When I walked into the room, I burst into tears. My name wasn’t being called, no need to be on my feet all day. My shoulders stopped hurting. Most of all, my day was my own. I didn’t realise how utterly worn out and void of energy I was. The break allowed me to connect with myself again. As a human, as a woman, a writer and as somebody who still has so many dreams at 27 years old. I am very thankful that there are hotels that offer this. I am eternally grateful. Thank you Carefree for what you do. You do not know what you’ve done for me. Thank you.
Melody avatar
Melody
I was worried at 1st leaving him with a family member, he doesn't trust too easily. But he insisted on me having a great time. That helped. Then I was able to relax completely at the hotel, it was beautiful, with peaceful grounds. Really helped my mental health, as I was able to let my mind relax.
Sandra avatar
Sandra
I needed time away since I look after my mum full time as well as working full time from home. I needed to sleep and not worry about observing whether or not my mum is okay. I’ve neglected myself in caring for my mum. The hotel was excellent and so was the location. I’m genuinely grateful for being able to take time out for me. Thank you.
Carina avatar
Carina
This break has made a huge difference to myself and my husband. We rarely get a chance to stop and talk, plan for the future and spend time just us two so this was the perfect break and the perfect hotel. We really recommend The Gonville Hotel in Cambridge, we were very well looked after, the location was great, and the room was very comfortable.
Atif avatar
Atif
North West Castle was an absolutely beautiful experience. The staff were lovely and looked after us extremely. The whole booking experience, etc., with Carefree was extremely simple. I was able to get away from my everyday activities with a beautiful, non-judgmental break.
Claire avatar
Claire
Because I don’t get to spend much time with OH whilst caring for Mum, we drift apart, so it’s good to reconnect. I love that the hotels give you their rooms for a good cause. Well done to them, and well done to you for running it. The only breaks I have had have been for work, but the only trouble is you still have to come back to it all!!
Kay avatar
Kay
Now I am not only a carer for my adult twins, I am also a carer for my parents. Having the opportunity to have a break away makes my life more manageable. It gives me something to look forward to. I actually feel like I am valued and matter. Having two nights away enabled me to relax and spend time with my partner, who I don’t live with. We had quality time together and could talk. The hotel upgraded our room so I could have a bath. I only have a wet room at home, so that was a real treat. We were also lucky enough to have dinner, bed, and breakfast included, which was a fantastic surprise. The hotel we stayed at was lovely, with such a warm atmosphere, and the staff — every one of them — were so friendly and helpful and really made us feel welcome and that we mattered. I would definitely go back there. I am so grateful for these opportunities; they really do make a difference.
Myranda avatar
Myranda
I had the BEST time. I booked to coincide with my birthday. It was so lovely to be alone as I do not often get that opportunity. I got to wake up naturally the next morning, have breakfast and a cup of tea AND finish it! The break was truly needed. Just one day but I came back feeling relaxed and ready to take on the world!
Judith avatar
Judith
2025 was a horribly traumatic year. I liked the look of The Sun hotel and Hitchin online, so I decided to make that my break in January. I wasn't disappointed. I received a warm welcome, politeness, attentiveness and kindness at the hotel. The stay was enjoyable and very relaxing. I enjoyed wandering around Hitchin and bought special items in some of the many independent shops. I didn't want to leave! I am so grateful to Carefree for giving me this time to take a breath and fortify flagging reserves as I continue caring in 2026. I am certainly enthused by the prospect of being able to book two breaks in 2026.

Breaks for unpaid carers

If you're a full-time carer, why not give yourself some time and space to look after your own wellbeing? Register for donated mini breaks today.

Start Free Registration
Oneka avatar
Oneka
My break was important as I have been feeling pretty burnt out and needed a moment to pause. Had I not had the break I wouldn’t get to stop.