Types of care
Respite care and breaks for carers
Short-term care that gives family carers a break — planned or at short notice.
4 min read
Respite is planned care, not failure
Respite covers a few hours a week, a night, or a couple of weeks in a care home. Using it early protects the family carer's health and usually extends how long someone can stay at home.
Ask the council for a carer's assessment
Family carers can request their own assessment from the council, which can lead to support in their own right, including help with breaks.
Book ahead where you can
Respite rooms and live-in cover are limited in school holidays and around Christmas. CareLink shows current vacancies where providers publish them.
Official sources
Guidance only — it isn't financial or legal advice, and rules and figures change. Always check the official source or speak to an adviser.