Unpaid carers from across Perth and Kinross recently experienced a memorable day of relaxation, learning and connection at the Scottish Crannog Centre, thanks to a special Carers Day Out as part of Respitality’s 10-year anniversary celebrations.

The event was one of many being held across Scotland in 2024-2025 to mark a decade of Respitality — a social tourism movement dedicated to providing meaningful, short breaks for unpaid carers through partnerships with local hospitality, leisure, and tourism businesses. The excursion was in collaboration with PKAVS Carers Hub, Perth & Kinross’s local Respitality delivery partner.

Anne Wright from PKAVS Carers Hub, said: “It’s very rewarding being part of something that offers invaluable breaks to unpaid carers. Taking the stress and strain of organising a short break away from the carer is priceless for them, as this can often be too much to comprehend alongside a busy caring role. Respitality breaks provide a vital lifeline for carers and ensures that they feel valued for the job that they do.  Without the generosity of local businesses such as The Crannog Centre, this would not be possible and having lots of different offers available makes the carers experience more person centred.”

The VIP day at the Crannog Centre offered more than 30 unpaid carers the chance to unwind and connect while enjoying a complementary lunch; a guided tour of the museum; and immersive workshops inspired by Iron Age life. Carers had the opportunity to take part in cooking, music, jewellery making and knife-carving experiences, all hosted on the banks of the beautiful Loch Tay.

 

 

There are an estimated 800,000 unpaid carers in Scotland who provide essential support to family members and friends. Many go without regular time away from their caring responsibilities, making initiatives like Respitality a lifeline for wellbeing, social connection and rest.

Launched in 2014 by Shared Care Scotland, Respitality works in partnership with local carers’ organisations and the hospitality sector to offer tailored short breaks that meet the needs of unpaid carers across the country.

Kerry Donaghy, Respitality Manager at Shared Care Scotland said: “We are so grateful to the Crannog Centre for hosting such a meaningful day out. You could feel what it meant to everyone who was there on the day, and if I could bottle up that feeling, I would. This year, as we celebrate a decade of Respitality, we’re also shining a light on the vital role unpaid carers play in our communities, and the importance of regular, quality breaks in sustaining their health and wellbeing.”

 

 

Laura Taylor from the Scottish Crannog Centre and organised the event, said: "I'm new to working with Respitality and while I knew it would be a rewarding experience, I had no idea how humbling and emotional the time we had together would be. Our organisation was inspired to work together, knowing the importance of community by our study of prehistory. Our ancestors only survived by the power of community and the people who Respitality work with, make up the best of our community today."

Respitality is made possible through the generosity of businesses across Scotland who donate short breaks and experiences to carers in their local communities. From hotel stays to spa days, afternoon teas to guided tours — every donation makes a difference.

For more information on how to get involved and other 10-year celebrations planned, visit Respitality.org.uk