A break for tired carers

NINE out of ten carers are unable to take proper breaks, a national charity study has shown.

It reveals that much more needs to be done to support unpaid family carers, especially in terms of regular, good-quality respite, both for themselves and those they care for. Tracy is a full-time carer for husband Frank. She explains: ‘Frank had a stroke in 2013. In July 2017, he was taken to hospital with a blood clot. By this point, I was totally exhausted.’ The study shows that seven out of ten carers are always tired and more than six out of ten are mentally exhausted. A similar number say they have trouble sleeping and more than a third say they are in chronic or persistent pain. Yet the UK’s 6.8million carers save the economy billions of pounds. It also reveals the need for respite holidays, which provide a chance to socialise and a range of accessible, stimulating activities. Tracy and Frank recently received financial support towards a respite holiday together. ‘From the moment we arrived, I felt like a weight had been lifted,’ says Tracy. ‘At home, I’m constantly washing, ironing and administering Frank’s medicine. Although I still chose to carry out some of Frank’s care during the break, it was great not to have to cook or clean. ‘Our room had a lovely view of Southampton Water, so Frank was very happy to sit and enjoy watching the world go by. I could read a book. It was wonderful! ‘I never usually leave Frank on his own, aside from a few hours when a friend sits with him. On holiday, I was able to pop to the shops and enjoy a walk while the staff kept Frank company.

‘We thoroughly enjoyed our relaxing week and the staff were all kind and caring. We are going back this year for our next break!’