A break from caring
You can take a break from caring, while the person you care for is looked after by someone else. Taking breaks helps you maintain your energy, focus and overall wellbeing.
There are lots of options for taking a break, sometimes known as respite care. They range from getting a volunteer to sit with the person you look after for a few hours, to a short stay in a care home so you can go on holiday.
The person you look after could go to a day care centre, or a paid carer could visit them at their home to look after them.
Options for taking a break
Arrange care and support for your loved one privately
There are different options for getting support for the person you are looking after while you have a break.
You may wish to make your own arrangements, such as:
- Ask friends or family if they can help.
- Look into befriending services, or local meet-up groups. The Simply Connect Directory has a range of local organisations and events listed.
- Employ a paid care worker to care for the person you are looking after in their own home.
- Pay for short-term residential care.
- Arrange a holiday for the person you are looking after.
There are a range of organisations which provide information and/or services which will help you to make private arrangements.
Ask us for a free carer's assessment
For regular or long-term breaks from caring, have a chat with us so we can understand your day-to-day life as a carer. We'll work out what we can do to help you, which might include providing a break for you. You can request a carer’s assessment here. The costs for a short break are assessed against the individual's ability to pay through a financial assessment.
Short breaks for disabled children and young people and their carers
Short breaks provide opportunities for disabled children and young people to have enjoyable social experiences as well as providing a valuable break for their parents or carers.
Short breaks can enhance social development and reduce social isolation. Short breaks include day, evening, overnight or weekend activities and take place in the child's own home, the home of a carer, a residential or community setting. Find out more and how to apply.