I need a break from my caring role
As a carer, needing a break is normal. You simply can’t keep going without a break.
Whilst having a break is certainly good for you, the person you’re looking after may also enjoy mixing with other people, a change of scenery and routine, and getting new experiences.
Different sorts of breaks
Caring is demanding and it is normal to feel exhausted, so it is particularly important to recognise when you need a break.
Many options for a break can be explored. Different types of breaks can include:
- a few hours each week
- an odd day off here and there
- a week or two weeks for a holiday
- all of these options
You may prefer to go on holiday with the person you care for or to go alone. A break does not mean you have to go away on holiday as such; some people just enjoy a short break away from caring that involves staying at home and the person they are looking after goes on holiday.
Arranging care cover
When arranging care yourself, you may decide to:
- pay for short-term residential care
- employ a paid care worker to care for the person you look after at home (directly or through an agency)
- arrange a holiday for the person you look after
Support from friends and family
Asking for help may seem hard, but friends or family members might be willing to look after the person you care for whilst you go on a short break or holiday.
It might be worth having a discussion to see if they would be willing to stay at your home to provide cover while you're away (if the person you care for lives with you).
On the other hand, they might enjoy a change of scenery staying with friends or family, have new experiences and learn new things while you are away.
Getting help through the council
Another alternative for care while you are away is respite. The council can help arrange alternative care for the person you look after so that you can take a break from caring.
Types of respite care
Respite care can be provided through:
- day-sitting service – this allows you a break to meet up with friends, go out or have time for yourself
- night-sitting service – someone will take over your caring responsibilities to allow you to catch up on a good night’s sleep
- day care – where the person you are looking after goes to a day centre or takes part in activities away from home, allowing you a break from caring
- holidays – help and support for when you want to go on holiday by yourself or with the person you look after
- residential or nursing care – the person you are looking after has a short stay in a residential or nursing home
- Direct Payments – payments from the council