Hundreds of families have benefited from a pilot that is increasing the number of short breaks for full-time unpaid carers, Tourism Secretary Fiona Hyslop has revealed.
In 2016, the Respitality initiative has allowed 564 unpaid carers and a companion to take a break, gifted by the tourism industry, at hotels, guest houses, leisure clubs and restaurants.
In addition, the Scottish Government has allocated more than £20 million from 2010-2017 towards the Short Break Fund, administered on behalf of national carers organisations by Shared Care Scotland.
Speaking ahead of Scottish Tourism Week and a Parliamentary debate on inclusive tourism, Ms Hyslop said: “Inclusive tourism recognises the need for everyone to be able to have a holiday or a break from their everyday routine, which can bring both social and economic benefits.
“Scotland has an active portfolio of initiatives that are trying to include many different social groups into tourism that would otherwise be excluded.
“Short breaks provide significant benefits for carers, helping them to have a break away from their caring responsibilities to recharge their batteries and have a little time for themselves.”
Don Williamson, CEO of Shared Care Scotland, said: “Thanks to the support of Scottish Government and the hospitality sector, our Respitality project is expanding steadily across Scotland giving many more unpaid carers the chance of a well-deserved break.
“Scottish Tourism Week gives us an opportunity to both thank the sector for their wonderful generosity, and we hope persuade more businesses to come on board.”
Wendy is a full time carer for her husband who has progressive M.S. He uses a wheelchair and needs help and support with all aspects of his life. Through her contact with the Carers Centre, Wendy expressed interest in Respitality and was put on the list. Wendy recently had a chat with her Carer Support Worker about her break and how she felt after it.
Wendy says “I was very lucky to be offered a one night stay at the Fairmount in St. Andrews and I was able to take a friend with me. My family chipped in to look after my husband so I could go with an easy mind although I did feel anxious because I have never had a break away from him before. We had a stunning bedroom and used the spa area, went into the pool and Jacuzzi. I then relaxed and chilled out on the loungers next to the pool my friend even paid for me to have a facial in the spa – what a lovely surprise!”
“We treated ourselves to a lovely meal and I was in bed by 10:30 and slept straight through the night – this never happens!!. Up in the morning and had a beautiful breakfast and away home. The staff were so polite and friendly, they treated me like a queen from the moment I arrived. They even washed and valeted my car for me for free.”
Cindy, Wendy’s Carer Support Worker asked what difference the break made to her. Wendy said “ When I got home I felt totally relaxed and ready to take on my caring role again. Even my husband noticed how well I looked, rested and relaxed, not stressed. He said it made him feel better that I had a chance to get a break and be pampered. Even now, when I have a hard day, I think about my break and smile.”
Wendy said she can’t thank the Fairmount enough for offering the break and Cindy and the Fife Carers Centre for the support she receives.
Wendy says “Thanks to The Fife Carers Centre and my Respitality break at the Fairmount, I have my mo jo back !”
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