“The biggest thing I am learning is to give myself permission to recharge and deal with the mum guilt.”
Mother’s Day is a moment to recognise the women across Wales who give so much of themselves every day, including the thousands of mothers, step-mums, foster mums and guardians who provide unpaid care to children, partners, parents and loved ones.
Wales has a higher percentage of unpaid carers than other parts of the UK, and many mothers struggle to even recognise themselves as carers because caring is simply woven into the fabric of motherhood.
Kate Cubbage, Director, Carers Trust Wales: “Mothers can be less likely than others to recognise and identify themselves as a carer. Many are exhausted, stressed and struggling with their own well-being – both physically and mentally.”
For many, caring is an act of love, but it is also physically tiring, emotionally demanding and often isolating.
Mothers often describe being ‘switched on’ around the clock, with ‘little time to breath’ - let alone to take time for self-care. Even the smallest restorative moments, like going for a walk or meeting a friend, can feel out of reach.
I didn’t realise how much I was running on empty until I finally had a chance to slow down.
Carer with Daffodils
Many mothers are juggling multiple roles - working part‑time around caring needs, managing medical appointments, coordinating with school or social care teams, and sometimes supporting older relatives and siblings too. The cumulative impact can lead to poor physical and mental health, financial strain and social isolation.
That’s why the Short Breaks Scheme, funded by Welsh Government and coordinated by Carers Trust Wales, is so important. The scheme offers unpaid carers the chance to take personalised, meaningful breaks that fit around their lives - and for many mothers, these moments of rest and connection can be really transformative.
I came feeling exhausted and worn out… and I left feeling the opposite.
Carer with InclusAbility
The Short Breaks Scheme gives mothers permission to prioritise themselves - often for the first time in years. A break doesn’t have to mean a weekend away; it can be something small but meaningful: a wellbeing voucher, a few hours in a favourite place, or a gentle group activity.
The holistic therapies really do make a difference! I come away feeling relaxed and refreshed.
Carer with Techtivity
“Mum guilt” is a familiar feeling for many mothers, but for those who are carers, it can be compounded by worry - worry about leaving their child, worry about whether things will “go wrong”, or whether they are allowed to step back at all.
A short break can soften that inner voice. And when they do take time out, the benefits ripple outward.
One parent captured this perfectly after taking part in a Campfire Cymru break:
“The biggest thing I am learning is to give myself permission to recharge and deal with the mum guilt.”
Parent carers frequently report feeling less anxious, more optimistic, and better equipped to cope when they return home.
Calm and relaxing… I had time to think about situations at home and clear my mind of some worries.
Carers with The Behaviour Support Hub
“I felt less isolated… sometimes you just need a break to be able to see the way ahead.” Carer with All Wales Forum
For mothers whose days are shaped by the demands of health conditions, therapies, behavioural challenges, or complex care routines, having something that is just for them can feel profound. It restores a sense of identity - not separate from their caring role, but alongside it.
It meant some peace and me time… I feel more ready to go back to my caring role.
Carer with Neath Port Talbot Carers Service
The Short Breaks Scheme acknowledges the emotional labour, the continuous vigilance, and the love that sits behind the caring role. It offers mothers the chance to rest without guilt, rebuild resilience, and return to their families feeling steadier, lighter and more supported.
Being a mother and a carer is a role that demands strength, patience, and heart. But no one should be expected to sustain that alone. And thanks to the Short Breaks Scheme, more mothers across Wales are finding a little time for themselves.