Caring way to take a break
THERE are something like 6.8 million carers in the UK, all known to be looking after a loved one. That means if you’re reading this there’s a good chance that you’re a carer too. Carers live a life of utter devotion, often in their roles for long periods of time, unable to have a normal existence with friends, outings and holidays.
So carers need to be cared for as well and that’s what Revitalise does. The national charity is the largest provider of much-needed breaks for disabled people and carers, determined to ensure respite is accessible to both.
Revitalise provides holiday breaks with 24-hour, nurse-led care, plus support from volunteers at three centres: Southampton, Chigwell in Essex, and Southport, near Liverpool.
Each offers excursions, activities and entertainment that are accessible to all.
Carers are welcome to come along and enjoy quality time with the one they love, or they can take their own break, secure in the knowledge that their loved one is happy and being well looked after.
Revitalise helped Tracy, a full-time carer for husband Frank, get a break for them both.
“Frank had a stroke in 2013,” says Tracy. “Last July he was taken to hospital with a blood clot. By this point, I was totally exhausted.
“We hadn’t been to Revitalise – because as we already receive some financial support towards care I didn’t think we would be eligible for any more.
“But I had a call from Revitalise in August, asking if we wanted to take a break.
“It couldn’t have come at a better time! From the moment we arrived I felt like a weight had been lifted. At home, I’m constantly washing, ironing and administering Frank’s medicine.
“When we were at Revitalise, although I still chose to be involved in Frank’s care, it was lovely not to have to do any cooking or cleaning.
“Our room had a lovely view of Southampton Water, so Frank was very happy to sit in his chair and enjoy watching the world go by.
“I was able to just sit and read a book. It was lovely.
“I never usually leave Frank on his own, aside from a few hours here and there where a friend sits with him at home.
“During our holiday I was able to pop to the shops and enjoy a walk while the staff kept Frank company.
“I can truly say that Frank and I thoroughly enjoyed our week.
“We both relaxed and I had every faith in every person there, who were all kind and caring. We are going back this year for our next break!”
The change from day-to-day routine has a huge positive effect on both carers and their charges, with everyone who takes a Revitalise break going home refreshed.