Doreen's story: time out on the Three Bridges tour

Doreen's story: time out on the Three Bridges tour

Doreen is the main carer for her husband, who lives with emphysema and requires daily support. As with many carers, the demands of her caring role can leave little time for herself, making it difficult to prioritise her own wellbeing and maintain social connections.

With support from her local carers' centre, Doreen used a Time to Live voucher to join the 'Three Bridges Cruise and Cream Tea' trip. The outing offered a valuable opportunity to step away from her caring responsibilities for a day and focus on her own wellbeing.

Caring can often feel isolating, and opportunities to spend time with others is incredibly important. The trip provided not only a welcome change of scenery, but also the chance to socialise, relax, and enjoy meaningful conversations in a friendly and supportive environment.

One of the most valuable aspects of the day was the opportunity to connect with others. Sharing experiences, listening and simply enjoying each other's company helped reduce feelings of isolation and reinforced that she was not alone in her caring journey.

"The trip gave me the opportunity to unwind, make new friendships, and focus on my own wellbeing for a change. Having the voucher meant everything was taken care of, allowing me to fully relax and enjoy the day. When I returned home, I realised how much I had needed that complete break. I felt refreshed, uplifted, and better able to continue supporting my husband."

The experience provided Doreen with more than just a day away from her caring responsibilities. It offered her the chance to reconnect with herself, build new friendships, and enjoy a sense of belonging within a community of people who understood the challenges and rewards of caring. For many carers, opportunities like this are essential. Short breaks provide time to rest, reflect, and recharge, helping carers maintain their own health and wellbeing while continuing to provide invaluable support to their loved ones.

Find out more about Time to Live here.