Healthwatch Essex 'Carers Voices' is commissioned by Essex County Council to gather feedback from carers across the county to find out what’s working well and not so well in order to influence improvements to the support provided for carers.

Breaks for unpaid carers (often called respite or short breaks) are planned periods of time away from daily caregiving responsibilities, designed to support the carer's health, wellbeing, and personal life. These can range from a few hours for shopping to longer holidays, allowing for rest and maintaining social connections. 

A break can include respite/holiday, sitting services, day support, or short‑notice help to attend appointments.

taking a break

This survey is divided into 2 parts: 

• If you have taken a break before, please answer Section A.
• If you have not taken a break or are unsure how to access one, please answer Section B.

In both sections you are invited to respond with a short answer, but you can simply use either yes (Y) or no (N), if you wish.