Carers Enjoy a Well-Deserved Summer Break
Forward Carers launched a small grants initiative last year that enabled Carers to come together for shared wellbeing and respite. Here is an example of how one group of Carers used their grant.
A Perfect Day at Weston-Super-Mare:
Carers from Acocks Green took a well-deserved break and headed to the sunny seaside town of Weston-Super-Mare. For those who spend so much of their time and energy caring for others, the chance to take a day just for themselves proved to be perfect.
From the moment the coach set off, the mood was light and full of laughter. One Carer shared, “Great day — had a laugh on the coach, a lovely walk in Weston and a relaxed journey home. Lovely.” That feeling of camaraderie and joy carried throughout the day as the group explored the town, walked along the beach, and enjoyed the simple pleasure of sunshine and sea air.
For many of the Carers, this was more than just a day trip — it was a rare opportunity to pause, breathe, and focus on themselves. One group member reflected,
“I nearly didn’t come as I was stressed about my dad, who I care for. But I made myself go, and what a lovely day. I met new people on the coach who were really friendly, and I enjoyed thinking about myself and just relaxing for the day.”
The trip was carefully planned and timed, as one Carer noted: “It was a good trip — nice coach and driver, well organised time-wise, and the sunny day made me feel good,” It’s these thoughtful touches that make all the difference, especially for those who don’t often get time to themselves.
The sentiment was echoed again and again: “A happy, enjoyable day — thank you to the organisers,” and “I felt really good after my trip; I would love to do it again.”
One Carer summed it up perfectly: “I had a brilliant, relaxed day out, met new people, had lots of laughter, chatter, sunshine and forgot all my troubles. We walked on the beach, and to top it all, the weather was fantastic… what more could we want?”
And perhaps the most heartfelt comment of all: “It felt like heaven.”
We couldn’t be more delighted that grant gave the Carers a day that brought joy, rest, and connection to those who give so much of themselves. Here’s to many more days like this — full of sunshine, friendship, and the respite that Carers truly deserve.
