Largo Leisure Holidays, who own six holiday parks in Scotland, have donated 28 holidays this year as part of their ongoing partnership with charity ‘Give us Time’ who support UK military families facing difficulties.
The respite breaks, provided by Largo Leisure, help UK military families struggling with daily life due to bereavement, physical or mental injuries, financial need, or having been separated for long periods of time due to deployment, or a combination of the above.
With 30,000 British troops deployed around the world in 2024, many face periods of separation and social isolation from family and friends which can impact the health and wellbeing of the spouses/partners and their children. A recent report from the Ministry of Defence stated that 1 in 8 (13.0%) UK Armed Forces personnel were seen by military healthcare services for a mental health related reason in 2023/24.
Largo Leisure Chairman and Ambassador for Give us Time, Andrew Howe added: “My involvement with the charity goes back many years before I joined Largo Leisure. I have seen first-hand the difference they make to the lives of so many of our brave service men and women who sacrifice so much to keep us safe. Often these families just need some time and space together to reconnect and make some happy memories. The Board at Largo Leisure were keen to support the charity, and we are very proud that our parks can provide a haven for families and couples to rehabilitate mentally, physically and emotionally.”
Roslyn, who came to stay at Braidhaugh Holiday Park in Crieff with her fiancé and 4-year-old daughter said: “Unfortunately, both me and my fiancé were deployed for 4 months each over a 10 month period. This left our daughter with one parent for eight months, so when the chance came up for a respite holiday, we jumped at it!
“We were fortunate to spend five days at the lovely Braidhaugh Holiday Park, Crieff, staying in a brand new 2-bedroom caravan. The park is situated on the riverbank and in close proximity to restaurants and shops. It was extremely peaceful, a little home from home. We all had a wonderful time exploring the local beauty spots and venturing into Perth to the leisure centre for some swimming. We were truly humbled, not only to be lucky enough to receive this holiday, but by the staff at Braidhaugh who couldn’t have done anything more for us. Thank you Give Us Time, our family had an amazing time”
Beth and her family came to stay at Sauchope Links Holiday Park near Crail after a period of military uncertainty and changing plans, she shared why the break was so important to them: “Where to start? We have had such a lovely time on our holiday at Sauchope Links Holiday Park last week and so thankful to all of you. It was so lovely to be together, dog included and spend such quality time where we could relax in our beautiful lodge overlooking the sea.
“We couldn’t believe that the island we saw from the lodge was the Isle of May, the name of our two year old daughter. We had such a lovely day visiting the island, hearing its history and seeing the wildlife. We also loved the local village of Crail and visiting St Andrews and Craigtoun Country Park. There was so much to see and do and we were very lucky with the weather. I very much enjoyed the hot tub once May was asleep too! Thank you so so much for this very kind treat, we are very grateful and will cherish these memories.”
Clair and her partner stayed at Braidhaugh Holiday Park, but also visited sister park Loch Tay Highland Lodges during their stay, she commented: “Due to never having a holiday together and ill health, we couldn’t have asked for a more fitting respite than what we received. This picturesque holiday park in Crieff was absolutely perfect for our four night stay. The lovely hosts had great communication with us on the lead up to our stay, this continued throughout the week we were there.
“We wanted to explore the beautiful nature of the area, and were told by the team on the park that we could hire a private self-drive boat on the stunning Loch Tay. This was an opportunity not to be missed. After viewing this secret haven, we ventured to the village of Killin where we were able to see the beautiful Falls of Dochart.
“Thank you to the hosts and Give us Time for giving us and others the opportunity to make everlasting memories. We have definitely made ones we will never forget.”
More information about Give us Time and the work they do can be found at: Home – Give us time – Breaks for service personnel and their families
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