Respite care: breaks that keep caring possible

The main types of respite

• Short care home stays — one to several weeks in a residential or nursing home. Many homes on our directory offer respite beds; it's also a low-risk way to "try before you decide" on permanent care.
• Respite at home — a paid care worker (or trained volunteer) comes to your home for a few hours, overnight, or live-in while you go away.
• Day care — regular weekday sessions at a day centre with meals and activities; the most affordable routine break.
• Emergency respite — arranged at short notice if a carer is taken ill. It is worth registering a carer emergency plan with your council before you ever need it.

What it costs — and who pays

Respite in a care home typically costs from around £700 to £1,500+ per week depending on region and nursing needs; home-based respite is charged hourly. Two council assessments unlock funding:

1. A care needs assessment for the person being cared for.
2. A carer's assessment for you — free, and it can conclude that respite is what keeps the caring arrangement sustainable, with the council funding or part-funding it (often via direct payments you can spend flexibly).

Some charities (including Carers Trust and the Royal British Legion for veterans) offer grants towards breaks. If the person has ongoing health needs, ask whether NHS continuing healthcare or carer support from the GP practice applies.