Respite is for the carer
Most care in this country is done by families, unpaid, indefinitely, and the thing that ends it is not usually the condition getting worse. It is the carer running out. A back that goes, a chest infection, a job that will not stretch any further, or simply years without a proper night's sleep.
Respite care is planned cover so that does not happen. It is not a failure to ask for it, and asking earlier works far better than asking at the point of crisis.
Two ways we provide it
Respite at home
Our carers take over in the person's own home, which for most people is much less disruptive than moving somewhere unfamiliar. That can be a few hours a week, a run of days, or full live-in cover for a fortnight while you are away. The routine stays the same, which matters enormously where someone is confused by change.
Respite placements in supported living
We provide accommodation on a respite basis as well as permanently, in our homes in Whitton, Kingston and Uxbridge. These are quiet residential houses with spacious rooms and gardens, close to parks, shops and hospitals. For some families a short stay also works as a trial run, to see how someone gets on before anything is decided permanently.
Book it before you need it. Emergency respite is the hardest thing to arrange well, because good cover needs a proper handover. If you know you have a holiday, an operation or a busy period coming, tell us weeks ahead and we will have the right carer briefed and introduced.
What respite cover includes
- Everything the regular routine involves: personal care, meals, medication, housework
- Company and getting out of the house, so it is not just maintenance
- Overnight and waking night cover where needed
- A written handover, so you are not briefing someone from scratch on the doorstep
- Updates while you are away, at whatever frequency reassures you
Emergency respite
Sometimes there is no notice: a carer is admitted to hospital, or a family emergency happens hundreds of miles away. Call us. We will tell you within the hour whether we can cover it. If we cannot, we will say so immediately rather than leaving you hoping, because in an emergency a fast no lets you try someone else.
Questions families ask
Can I get help paying for respite care?
Possibly. A carer's assessment from your local council can lead to support including respite, and it is a legal right for anyone providing regular unpaid care. It is separate from the assessment of the person being cared for. See our guide to paying for care in London.
What is the shortest respite booking you take?
A few hours. Some families use a regular weekly visit purely so they can go out, which over a year is worth more than an occasional fortnight.
Can respite happen at home rather than in a care setting?
Yes, and for most people it is the better option. Familiar surroundings, familiar routine, and no upheaval at either end.
How far ahead should I book?
As far ahead as you can, particularly for school holidays and Christmas. We will always try to help at short notice, but planned cover is better cover.
Talk it through with Jackie
No call centre and no obligation. Tell us what you are dealing with and we will tell you honestly whether we can help.