It's official: Carefree has now registered over 40,000 carers on our platform! This is a monumental moment for us. Since our founding eight years ago, we've delivered over 15,000 breaks, and we couldn't be more thrilled that we get to provide this crucial support.
That's 40,000 people now eligible for a much-needed 1-2 night hotel stay. 40,000 people who can get the rest they truly deserve. We've had the immense privilege of hearing countless stories from those who have taken a break with us, stories that consistently describe the experience as not just helpful, but sometimes life-changing.
Hearing the impact: Carers share their stories
(Pictured above: Unpaid carer, Nia. Read her story here)
The impact of a break goes far beyond a night away…
“I rarely get to spend time with my husband. Its so important to have a break or time out as just us. We are constantly on the go with balancing caring and working to the point where we are simply exhausted. This break was not only generous in terms of the cost but more so priceless because we managed to relax and unwind. This is essential to our wellbeing and coping skills to continue with being carers.” - Rebecca, stayed at Delta by Marriott Cheltenham Chase.
"It was lovely, I sometimes feel invisible - I’m also a single parent so even that feels like I’m a failure at times. Knowing there was an organisation that saw me and helped me feel ok to take a break has done so much for my feelings of self-worth. I get overwhelmed at times and often feel interrogated by organisations when I ask for support - often rejected because I do feel shame for my feelings of not coping every minute of every day, so the stress of even asking gets too much. I really appreciated your organisation. I felt valued." - Maxine, stayed at Stratford Manor
"It's great to have a chance to return to London, my hometown! I moved to improve my son's environment and became isolated and distant from home. I got to visit my old haunts which is therapeutic for me! A trip down memory lane!" - Seran, stayed at Bedford Hotel
Why this matters: Understanding the 'caring economy'
Our mission is rooted in a clear understanding of the Caring Economy. New research suggests that 50% of us will become a carer before the age of 50. This role, while invaluable, has a significant impact on health, finances, employment, and education.
Carers are the invisible backbone of our healthcare system. They provide 80% of home care in the UK, saving the public purse a staggering £184 billion a year (equivalent to the entire NHS budget). Yet, they are rarely given the recognition or support they deserve for their frontline role.
For carers, a break isn't a luxury, it's a fundamental necessity.
The numbers speak for themselves:
Over half of current and former carers (58%) face disadvantages in looking after their own physical or mental health.
But, at Carefree, 95% of our carers said a break improved their wellbeing.
Crucially, 88% would not have been able to take a break without us.
These breaks aren't just 'something nice'; they are a vital investment in the people who help to hold our society together.
Time for you to take a break
We make these breaks both accessible and affordable. With a simple one-time registration and a small admin fee, carers can access a number of different breaks across the UK. Countryside retreat? Bustling city break? Seaside stay? See how a Carefree break can help you recharge.
