Looking After Yourself

Caring for someone, even someone you love can be tiring and there will be many times when maintaining a positive outlook will be difficult. The constant demands of caring and the changes a person’s illness brings to family life will bring about a range of feelings and emotions.

Emotions might include a sense of satisfaction at being a carer, but you may also feel anger and be overwhelmed by the situation.

Caring for someone can be physically and emotionally exhausting and it is important to look after yourself. At times, you will need a break from not only your daily tasks, but also from the person you’re caring for – perhaps for a few hours, a day, or longer. Regular breaks from caring can help relieve the stress and exhaustion you may feel from time to time. Breaks can also provide benefits for the person being cared for – they can give people new experiences and something to look forward to, and memories to look back on.

To discuss your needs as a carer please arrange to have a Carers Assessment by calling us on 01752 201890.

Carefree transforms vacant accommodation into vital breaks for unpaid carers

The Importance of a Break

Carefree know all too well how challenging a full-time caring role can be, so a few days away with a partner or a friend can work wonders. It may seem like a small thing but their experience shows us that it can make a huge difference. Read a book, go for a walk, or simply catch up on some sleep. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll return home with a whole new outlook on things, refreshed and rejuvenated.

How it Works

Accommodation

Thanks to the generosity of their Hospitality Partners, they are able to offer short breaks at minimal cost for full-time unpaid carers in need of some time off. There are two options:

· HOTEL - 1-3 nights with 1 companion (adult or child). Twin or Double room. Breakfast included.

· HOLIDAY COTTAGE - 7 nights with 1 adult companion and/or up to 2 children. Self-catering.

Reservations

Short breaks can be reserved via their online booking platform where you will find a selection of hotels and holiday cottages throughout the UK. Where, when and for how long, the choice is yours.

Costs

There is no charge for the accommodation but you are responsible for all other costs (transport, food, travel insurance etc.) and there’s a £25 admin fee to help with the cost of operating their charity.

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Care- Free

The short breaks initiative is specifically designed to give carers some time away from their caring responsibilities. You are welcome to take a companion with you but not the person that you care for. If you can’t go away for more than one night, that’s OK. If you want to travel alone, that’s fine too.

Eligibility

To qualify for a break you must be:

· Aged 21 or over

· Full-time unpaid carer (30+ hours per week)

· Able to arrange interim care

· Able to pay for extras (admin fee, transport, food, travel insurance etc.)

· Please note: only one carer per household can sign up with Carefree, so if e.g. you and your partner both care for your child, only one of you should self-refer. (You will however, be able to bring a guest, which could be your partner, along with you to your break).

Get started!

You can register yourself or, if you’d like some help, you can ask to be referred by Caring for Carers by calling 01752 201890 or emailing caringforcarers@improvinglivesplymouth.org.uk .

To make your own referral simply click here. Once they have validated your caring status, they’ll send you an invitation to choose a break. If you’ve got any questions find their contact details here.