Respite care, also known as short-term or short-stay care, is a temporary living arrangement for residents within one of our care homes across England and Wales. It gives both carers, and those being cared for, a bit of time off and a chance to recharge their batteries.
Everyone staying with us for a respite break will receive personalised care, tailored to their individual needs. They’ll have their own furnished room, be welcomed into the home and encouraged to take part in the life of the home and the many activities on offer.
Respite care can benefit both you and your loved one in many ways. It can:
- Help you relax and enjoy some quality time for yourself
- Improve your mental and physical health and wellbeing
- Gives you time to pursue your hobbies, interests or social activities
- Support you in managing the challenges and demands of caring
- Give your loved one a change of environment and new opportunities
- Enhance the quality of life for both of you.
The minimum length of respite care within an MHA care home is two weeks, and the maximum length is usually six weeks. However, we can be flexible depending on your needs and availability. Please contact us to discuss your options.
The cost of respite care depends on the level of care and support your loved one requires, as well as the duration of their stay. Typical fees for each care home are available to view on the individual care home's webpage. However, you will be provided with an exact fee based on individual needs following your enquiry, so you know exactly what to expect.
We accept various types of funding, including self-funding, local authority funding, and NHS continuing healthcare funding.
We recommend that you pack enough clothes and personal items for your loved one’s respite stay, as well as any medication, mobility aids or special equipment they may need. You can also bring some photos, books, music or other items that will make them feel more at home. We will provide bedding, towels, toiletries and other essentials.
Yes, you are welcome to visit your loved one at any time during their respite stay. We have no visiting hours or restrictions, as we believe that family and friends are an important part of our residents’ wellbeing. You can also call or video chat with your loved one whenever you want.
To book a respite stay, you need to contact your nearest MHA care home first to check availability and arrange a visit. Once you are happy with our home and our services, we will ask you to fill out some forms and provide us with some information about your loved one’s health and care needs. We will then confirm your booking and prepare everything for your loved one’s arrival.