Mytime: Providing Much-Needed Breaks for Unpaid Carers in Milton Keynes
A new initiative has launched in Milton Keynes, connecting unpaid carers with businesses and organisations who kindly donate complimentary leisure, cultural, and educational activities. Mytime ensures that unpaid carers are recognized and supported in our communities by giving them opportunities to have time-out from their caring responsibilities.
The initiative was started by the Liverpool charity, Local Solutions, with the aim of giving carers space to relax and recharge. By offering social interaction and a break from their caring role, Mytime helps carers return with renewed energy and confidence to continue their important work.
For many of us, simple activities like meeting friends, reading a book, or pursuing hobbies are taken for granted. However, for carers and those they care for, these opportunities are often out of reach. The UK’s 6.5 million unpaid carers play a crucial role in saving the economy an estimated £132 billion each year. Despite this, the demanding nature of their role can take a toll, with research showing that 40% of carers have not had a break in over a year.
The gift of an overnight stay, a meal, or a trip to the cinema can make a world of difference to a carer. These small gestures provide much-needed respite and allow carers to enjoy the simple pleasures in life that many of us take for granted. Mytime partners with businesses and organizations who generously donate complimentary break opportunities to registered carers, no offer is too small or unique.
Hazel Brown, Head of Communities at Local Solutions, expressed the importance of offering breaks to carers, stating, „Caring for someone can be very demanding both physically and emotionally, and having time to yourself can make such a difference. The simple gift of offering a break to carers means so much to them as their daily lives are filled with the selfless act of devoting their time to a family member, friend, or those living with a debilitating disability.“
Mytime is an exciting opportunity for businesses and organizations in Milton Keynes to give back to their local community. By offering complimentary breaks for carers, they can show their appreciation for the invaluable contribution that carers make to society. If you are interested in getting involved with Mytime and offering a break for carers, you can visit their website or contact mytime@localsolutions.org.uk.
In conclusion, Mytime is a much-needed initiative that provides unpaid carers in Milton Keynes with the opportunity to take a break and recharge. By partnering with businesses and organizations, Mytime is able to offer carers the chance to enjoy simple pleasures that many of us take for granted. This initiative not only benefits carers but also allows businesses to give back to their community and show their support for those who dedicate their time to caring for others.