Planned respite support for family carers

When you support someone you care about, your own appointments, work, friendships and rest can be difficult to fit in. Planning regular time for those things starts with an arrangement that also feels comfortable to the person receiving support.

Keep their day feeling like their day

Tell us what the person enjoys, how their day usually runs and the everyday help they would welcome. A visit could centre on conversation, a shared interest, meals, agreed household tasks or an outing.

Think about what would make the time feel familiar to them, rather than simply filling the hours while you are away. Their preferences help shape both the activities and the person you meet.

Meet before you decide on the arrangement

A CarePal is a care and support worker matched around the individual. We share suitable profiles, and the person receiving support helps choose whom to meet. Family can be involved where wanted and appropriate.

The introduction gives you time to talk about routines, communication and the practical details of a visit. It also gives the individual a chance to say what feels right to them.

Plan a regular rhythm

You might be hoping to keep a regular appointment, make space for a hobby or spend time on other commitments. Share the days and times you have in mind so we can discuss a workable package.

We aim for a dedicated CarePal, or a small consistent team where appropriate. The same person cannot be guaranteed at every visit. We discuss absences, possible cover and changes under the agreed arrangements and CarePal availability; cover is not guaranteed.

Let’s talk about what would help

Our minimum visit is two hours, with a minimum support package of six hours per week. Both minimums apply.

There is no upfront matching fee. Payment begins when a suitable CarePal is in place and support starts, in line with your agreement.

We check the support, postcode and availability before anything is agreed. Personal-care, medication and specialist requirements need a separate review. This is planned, regular respite support, not emergency cover.

Talk to us about support or call 0345 030 3845. You can also read our care FAQs.