Looking after someone you love can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do. It can also be exhausting. Respite care exists to give carers a break, and to make sure the person being cared for is looked after well while they have it.
What is respite care?
Respite care is short-term support that stands in for a family carer for a few hours, a day, a weekend or longer. The person you care for continues to receive the support they need, and you get time to rest, recover or simply do something for yourself.
Who is it for?
Respite care can help anyone who provides regular, unpaid care for a family member, partner or friend. That might be an older relative, a child or adult with a learning or physical disability, or someone living with a mental health difficulty.
What can it look like?
- At home. A trained care support worker comes to your home so the person you care for stays in familiar surroundings.
- Away from home. Support in a respite unit, where the person can stay for a short period.
- Planned or occasional. A regular break each week, or cover for a particular event or appointment.
A break is not a luxury. It helps carers keep going, and it helps the people they care for too.
Making it work for you
It often helps to introduce a new carer gradually, so the person you care for feels comfortable. Share routines, preferences and anything that helps the day go smoothly. A written care plan means everyone knows what to expect.
How to get started
Talk to us about the kind of break you need and how often. We will listen, agree a plan with you and match you with a trained, DBS-checked care support worker. If you are not sure what you need yet, that is fine. Start with a conversation.
Written by the Juard Care team. This article is general information, not personal, medical or legal advice.
