For unpaid carers, taking time for themselves can often feel impossible.
Many carers are supporting loved ones alongside full-time jobs, raising families, or managing their own health needs. Caring doesn’t stop at the end of the working day — it can mean being available emotionally and physically 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
And because the person they care for is often a parent, partner or child, the emotional toll can be immense.
At Action for Family Carers, we know how important it is for carers to have opportunities to rest, recharge and focus on their own wellbeing. That’s why, alongside our partners at Essex Carers Support and funded by Essex County Council, we provide Time4You grants to help carers take meaningful breaks and find moments of calm.
For some carers, this might mean planning a longer break away. For others, it could be creating small pockets of wellbeing through mindfulness, creative activities, meditation apps, sewing, art or other resources they can use at home.
Our Carer Support Workers work closely with carers to explore what would help them most and how a Time4You grant could support them to make space for themselves.
One carer recently supported through the scheme was Ellie, who chose to use her grant for a short spa break. Reflecting on the experience, she shared:
“I just wanted to let you know that I had my spa break last week and it was absolute bliss!
I didn’t realise how much I needed it until I had time to breathe. I burst into tears within 10 minutes. I took time to enjoy the spa facilities, took a nap, had an amazing massage and meal. I even managed to read some chapters of my book which I haven’t done for years! I barely spoke to another soul and returned home ready to fight another day.
I can’t thank you enough for the grant and really can’t express how valuable it was. I appreciated it so much.”
Ellie’s story is a powerful reminder that caring for yourself is not a luxury – it is essential.
Looking after your own health and wellbeing helps carers continue caring for as long as they choose to, while also benefiting the person they support.
Small steps that can make a difference
Even small changes can help improve wellbeing and reduce feelings of exhaustion:
– Take regular breaks – even an hour away can help you reset.
– Request a free Carer’s Assessment from Essex County Council to explore what support may be available.
– Check your benefit entitlement if finances are adding extra pressure.
– Register as a carer with your GP – you may be eligible for priority appointments, vaccinations and annual health checks.
You can also find more wellbeing advice, tips and support on our wellbeing pages: Action for Family Carers Wellbeing Support
If you’re caring for someone and would like support, our friendly team is here to help. You can register with us online or call us on 0300 770 8090.
