Shetland Carers co-ordinate the Scheme locally, with support from Shared Care Scotland, who now support carer centres in 22 local authority areas to run Respitality Schemes.

Respitality (respite + hospitality) is a way the hospitality and leisure sector can help their local communities by recognising and appreciating the contribution of unpaid carers, by donating short breaks to carers at quieter times of the year. This enables a carer, plus a companion where possible, to have a break away from their caring responsibilities to recharge their batteries and have a little time for themselves.

Many carers within Shetland have been able to enjoy a one or two night stay, with breakfast included, at either the Lerwick or Shetland Hotel during the Winter months from October to March - donated to the Respitality Scheme by Brudolff Hotels Ltd. Shetland Carers would like to thank Marjory Barrie and all her staff at both hotels, for their kindness and generosity.

Shetland Carers are also delighted that Brudolff Hotels Ltd would like to remain part of the Respitality Scheme for another year 2023-2024.

Thank you for your generosity, and helping us have a weekend away from our caring duties. It gave us a much needed rest! Respitality is a fantastic scheme and we hope you continue to support it.

Having the chance of a small break to relax after such a stressful year was truly amazing. All the staff were lovely and friendly. I am truly grateful for this opportunity.

We thoroughly enjoyed our overnight stay. Time to relax, enjoy some time out and treat ourselves. A long lie and fully prepared breakfast was very much appreciated! Your kindness in offering these respitality breaks mean so much to carers and families. Thank you.

We had a 2 night stay at the Lerwick Hotel. I cannot put into words how beneficial it was for me and my cared for person. It was so good getting away from everyday chores and being treated. We would not be able to afford this ourselves. Thank you so much.

For more information about the Scheme, visit www.shetlandcarers.org/respitality

To sign up to the Scheme, either as a carer or a Gift Provider, please contact carers@shetland.org or tel: 01595 743923.

Marjory Barrie of Brudolff Hotels Ltd, with Amanda Brown of Shetland Carers.