Our teams provide expert respite care in safe, homely environments
What is respite care
Respite care is short-term care for older people 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 temporary care.
Our teams can also provide extra support for those recovering from an illness or operation, also known as convalescent care.
Thank you very much to all the staff for looking after him so well over the last two weeks. He has definitely had a nice time and he felt safe and very well cared for. This has taken a huge load off my shoulders.
Respite resident at Long Stone Manor
March 2025 Reasons for respite stays in care homes
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.
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.
There are many reasons why respite care might be a good option for you or your loved one:
- Holiday stays - respite stays allow primary caregivers to rest and rejuvenate, knowing their loved one is well cared for in a safe environment.
- Transition from hospital stays - we can offer a place for recovery and support before returning home after a stay in hospital.
- Convalescence care - following surgery or illness your loved one can receive additional care and monitoring during their recovery period.
- Palliative care - specialist care for individuals with a serious illnesses to improve their quality of life and manage their symptoms.
- Cognitive support and social interaction - respite stays offer the opportunity for socialisation and activities which may not available at home.
- Specialised medical care and care planning - our nursing and care teams can manage medical treatments that are challenging to administer at home, as well as evaluating individual needs and planning for long-term care or home care services.
- Emergency respite care - we can step in to provide safe, high-quality care when regular caregivers are suddenly unavailable due to illness or other emergencies.
Our approach to respite care
At Care UK we tailor our respite stays to each person’s individual needs.
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.
Dad thoroughly enjoyed his respite stay and all the various activities. Thank you to all the staff!
Relative of a resident at Cairdean House
June 2024 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. Respite stays can also serve to support a smooth transition following a hospital stay to get you ready to return to your home.
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 in a safe environment. 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.
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 What is the duration of respite care
Respite care breaks at Care UK homes can be flexible depending on your needs. Short-term respite care provides brief relief for carers, with stays ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Extended respite care offers a longer-term support. This can vary from weeks to several months for carers facing prolonged commitments.
How to arrange respite care
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.
Use the find a care home search tool to find a 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.
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