A stone's throw away

Andrew's story

Andrew approached their local carers centre to enquire about the possibility of a break where Andrew and their spouse could attend alone without their grandchild whom they care for.

Andrew and their spouse have a very extensive caring role for their grandchild with complex needs. Andrew does not have any respite in place during the school holidays and they can find the caring role very demanding and intensive. Their grandchild requires support and care 24 hours per day and they have no other support networks to care for them to give the carers a much needed break together. Andrew and their spouse have very limited sleep when at home and it can be exhausting for them both. Andrew has not had any time to themselves in nearly three years due to limited support services available.

Andrew was advised of some local donations from Arndean Cottages, which would suit their availability as the break had to happen when their grandchild was on a residential school break. They were then supported to book a two-night stay on a date of their choosing.

Andrew returned from their break and advised that it was a perfect stay for them from start to finish. They were greeted on arrival by the owner and were immediately made to feel welcome and at home. They could not believe such a lovely gesture had been made by donating this break to them.

They settled in and made use of the log fire and relaxed listening to the storm roaring outside and the fire crackling. They were able to have two full nights sleep, a first in a very long time, and felt immediately recharged.