** Please note that Carefree offer breaks in the low season and are currently closed to referrals. They are hoping to take referrals in the winter months/early next year. If you are on our emailing list you will be made aware of the re-opening of Carefree breaks **

Carefree breaks is a registered charity set up in the summer of 2016 to help carers to take a break! Carefree recognise that there are more than 7 million unpaid carers in the UK, yet despite their extraordinary contribution they are largely invisible to the rest of society.

The vast majority of carers develop health problems of their own and many struggle to make ends meet. To make matters worse most of them rarely, if ever, take time out.

Public sector provision is in short supply and private sector alternatives are unaffordable for all but a few. With no chance to look after themselves, their ability to maintain their caring role is severely tested. So Carefree breaks have partnered up with hotels and holiday homes who have offered 3 and 5 night stays for carers all across the UK.

Carefree breaks concept is straightforward:

• They invite the hospitality sector to donate excess capacity
• They invite public and third sector organisations to refer carers in need of a break
• They manage supply and demand via their online booking platform.

Eligibility

To qualify for a break you must be:

• Aged 21 or over
• A full-time unpaid carer (35+ hours per week)
• Able to arrange interim care
• Able to pay for extras (admin fee, travel, food etc.)

The Gift

You are invited to choose one of the following:

• HOTEL – 3 nights with 1 adult companion. Twin room. Breakfast included.
• HOLIDAY COTTAGE – 7 nights with 1 adult companion and/or 2 children. Self catering.

If you can’t go for the full 3 or 7 days that’s OK. If you want to travel alone, that’s fine too. There is no charge for the accommodation but you are responsible for all other costs (travel, food etc.) and there’s a £25 admin fee that goes towards the cost of operating the charity.

As Care Free has an online booking platform it is preferred that carers have access to an email account to book and check the progress of their break. 

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.

Referrals

Breaks are currently offered to eligible carers who have been referred to carefree by a carer support organisation. PKAVS is a registered carer support organisation and can refer carers for a carefree break when the next phase is open for applications.