East Midlands Railway has helped bring some festive cheer to a group of unpaid carers by offering them a free Christmas day out in Nottingham. The rail operator joined forces with charity Carers First to organise the seasonal trip, which saw 30 carers from across Lincolnshire travel to the city’s Christmas market for a well-earned break.

The journey itself became part of the celebration, with mince pies, quizzes and chocolate served on board to help passengers relax and unwind. For many, the day offered a rare chance to step away from demanding caring responsibilities and enjoy time for themselves.

Among those taking part was Sarah Pike from Sturton By Stow, who welcomed the opportunity for some space and social time.

Sarah said:

"We managed to do a bit of shopping and get in the Christmas spirit and it was so nice to be socialising rather than being isolated. It was lovely to get on a train as you don’t get chance to do it very often. The Charity helps us be ourselves outside of our caring responsibilities and we are so grateful it exists and for these opportunities."

Fellow carer Elaine Macleod, from Washingborough, echoed the sentiment, describing how invaluable time away can be.

“It’s such a special day because all the carers are truly wonderful. Having time for myself means so much as I'm full-time carer for my husband. He can’t go anywhere without me and we have no family, so this support is real respite - a precious chance to breathe. Everyone at the charity and in the support groups always makes me feel so welcome. I was so nervous when I first started going, but now it’s become a lifeline."

Carers First representative Ellie Barker, who joined the group on the trip, praised the initiative and highlighted how meaningful days like this can be. She said:

"We would like to thank EMR for putting on this special trip and helping all our carers feel so comfortable. The day gave carers a much-needed bit of respite. They’re all unpaid and caring in their own homes, so it’s really special for them to have a day where they’re not in that caring role and instead have a whole team looking after them. Many of the carers we support don’t have much financially, so a day like this really helps - especially in the run-up to Christmas. The contribution unpaid carers make is equivalent to an entire extra NHS, and events like today help raise their profile and remind people that support is available.”

Kaye Robinson, Community Engagement Manager at EMR, said the partnership was one they were proud to support.

"Carers First is an incredible charity that support the wellbeing and mental health of thousands of unpaid carers across the UK - we couldn’t be more delighted to partner up with a more deserving charity to offer a little bit of magic at this time of year."

Image: East Midlands Railway