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Respite care

Our teams can provide short-term care to suit your loved one's needs

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Our teams provide expert respite care, in safe, homely environments

What is respite care

Respite care is short-term care for older people who need extra support following an operation or illness, or for temporary care while their regular carer takes a well-earned break. A respite care home will provide tailored, 24-hour support for older people in need of a short-term stay.

Many of our care homes offer respite care, and we’re here to support you with short-term stays as and when you need them. Our advance respite stays are perfect for helping you and your loved ones to plan ahead.

Being a full-time carer is a very demanding role. Respite care breaks are an opportunity for carers to take a holiday or simply spend some time looking after their own needs, safe in the knowledge that their loved one is receiving the very best care. And respite care can be a valuable break for older people too – it’s a chance to meet new people, enjoy a change of scenery and try out some new activities and experiences.

 

Thank you for all the care, kindness and friendship you gave to Mum during her respite care - it was definitely a transformation..

Respite resident at Cuttlebrook Hall
March 2024

What do respite care homes offer?

We tailor our respite stays to each person’s individual needs, and our nursing and care teams have specialist expertise in supporting older people who have Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, physical disabilities or restricted mobility, and conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease and multiple sclerosis.

Our teams can provide extra support for those recovering from an illness or operation, also known as convalescent care.

We understand that it’s the personal details that make a difference. We take the time to get to know your loved one so we can be sure that their stay gets off to a great start. Each respite client has a personal care plan that takes into account their support needs, interests, likes and dislikes, and daily routines.

Every respite resident has their own bedroom, which they’re free to personalise with photographs and ornaments from home, to help create a familiar environment. Friends and family are welcome to visit at any time and can join their loved one for mealtimes or arrange special outings with them.

 

I am very happy with my stay at Ellesmere House. I find the nurses and careers very friendly and helpful. The management team are also easily approachable, friendly and helpful.

Respite resident at Ellesmere HouseNovember 2023

What are the benefits of respite care?

Organising a respite care break for a loved one might feel overwhelming at first, but you can rest easy knowing that Care UK homes offer safe and comfortable spaces where residents receive high quality care.  

As well as offering peace of mind for carers, respite care provides a breath of fresh air for older people. Our care homes each have an exciting schedule of activities tailored to each home, plus tasty and nutritious meals created by our award-winning chefs.  

Care UK homes are designed to promote independence, but they also offer close-knit areas where residents can socialise with people who have similar care needs. 

Respite residents can take advantage of Care UK initiatives and facilities too. For example, our Wishing Trees allow all residents to suggest ideas for new hobbies or activities they’d like to try. One respite resident wished to have a tattoo of a tabby cat, and the home wasted no time in organising it for her. 

 

The staff were very caring. Lots of activities. It lives up to the expectations of home from home. Made many friends with the residents and I would certainly go there again.

Respite residentReview taken from carehome.co.uk

How to arrange respite care

Use the find a care home search tool to find a residential home that offers respite care in your area. Our care support teams will be able to give you more information about arranging a respite break, including the fees for the stay and the funding options available to you.

If you are considering having a holiday with your loved one but you’re not sure where to start, our break away holiday guide can help. 

Discover other types of care

FAQs about respite care

Respite care is short-term care. In a care home, older people who need extra support for a temporary amount of time can receive respite care.

Respite care can offer support for older people following an operation or illness, or while their carer takes a break. At Care UK, many of our care homes offer advance respite booking to help home carers to plan ahead.

If you or a loved one has been discharged from hospital and need short-term support, known as intermediate care, you can receive up to six weeks for free if eligible. Learn more about what affects the cost of a care home or get in touch with our friendly team to learn more.

The length of a respite stay can be tailored to each individual's needs. Get in touch with your nearest home to find out more. 

The cost of care will vary depending on your loved one's needs. Get in touch with your nearest home to find out more.