Give us a Break carers' holiday - in pictures

20 carers travelled from Hampshire to London for the respite break in London.
They had a free two-night break in the capital, with transport costs covered. Photograph: Jonathan Goldberg

Most of the group were full-time carers looking after sick and disabled relatives and friends. One in three of them had not had a break for a year Photograph: Jonathan Goldberg

The itinerary for the trip - organised by soundinnovation and Hampshire charity Carers Together - included tickets to a West End show, afternoon tea at a hotel, and beauty treatments, all provided by London businesses
Photograph: Jonathan Goldberg

The break was was funded by the Big Lottery Fund, the Body Shop Foundation and UnLtd.
Ros (second from left) said: “I feel lighter and more positive today. It’s a nice feeling. Long may it continue!” Photograph: Jonathan Goldberg

Before the break, Darren (pictured) said the responsibility of caring for his mother had stopped him living the life the way he would like. But the holiday "helped me to see that others do care about my needs". Photograph: Jonathan Goldberg

The carers enjoy a tour round London ... Photograph: Jonathan Goldberg

... despite the rain Photograph: Jonathan Goldberg

One in eight adults in the UK are carers and this figure is expected to rise further. Carers are calculated to save the country £119bn a year.
Margaret (orange and pink scarf, front row) said: "[The break] has given me the strength to carry on." Photograph: Jonathan Goldberg

The carers are receiving continued support since their return home.
Barbara (in green jacket) said: “I feel more relaxed and have made new friends who could become real friends, not acquaintances.” Photograph: Jonathan Goldberg