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Respite care

Respite care - when you need a break from caring, or are looking for short-term care

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Looking after someone you love isn’t easy. You want with all your heart to give them the best care possible, but at the same time, your life doesn’t stop. And you shouldn’t feel guilty about that. 

That’s why we developed Respite Care in the first place. To give you the break you need, while still ensuring your loved one gets the care they depend on.

What is Respite Care?

Respite care is all about giving you the opportunity to take a much-needed break while ensuring your loved one continues to receive the attentive care they deserve. It’s a way to pause and recharge, knowing that they are in safe and capable hands.

When we say respite care, we don’t just mean anyone stepping in. Our dedicated Care Experts are carefully selected, highly trained and emotionally intelligent so you can be sure they’ll provide the best care possible. They take the time to get to know your loved one’s needs, preferences, and routines, so their care feels seamless and comforting.

Whether it’s short term or long term, our respite care services offer you a moment to breathe. By caring for yourself, you’re better able to continue caring for those you love. So let us help you find that balance.

How can Respite Care help you?

Respite care is designed to support you as much as your loved one, giving you the chance to rest, recharge, and take care of yourself.

By stepping away, even for a short time, you can regain the energy and focus needed to provide the best care possible. It’s an opportunity to attend to your own well-being—whether that’s catching up on sleep, spending time with friends, catching up on work or simply enjoying a moment of quiet. 

Getting extra support also provides peace of mind, knowing that your loved one is being looked after by a compassionate and capable professional who understands their needs. Taking time for yourself isn’t just okay—it’s essential. And, ultimately means you’ll be more energised once you resume caring for them. 

Benefits of Respite Care for your loved one

There are so many ways in which we can help your loved one with whatever they need, including:

  • Everyday companionship – From playing Gin Rummy to watching the latest episode of your loved one’s favourite Netflix series
  • Fun outings – Stop by the local flower market or take a trip to their favourite coffee shop to get them out the house. 
  • Overnight care – To ensure your loved one gets the sleep they need
  • Personal care – Your carer can help with more personal help such as morning baths and afternoon stretching sessions
  • Preparing Meals – Your expert carer can whip you up freshly-made, nutritious meals instead of ready-made ones
  • Household chores – Like general tidying, vacuuming or helping mow the lawn. 
  • Shopping – Take your loved ones out to the shops get food, clothes or a great deal
  • Medication – Your carer will collect it from the pharmacist and track when to take it

Types of Respite Care

We offer two types of Respite Care, both of which are completely built around your needs. 

Short-Term Respite Care Packages

Longer-Term Respite Care Packages

Our short-term packages are perfect for those who need someone to care for their loved one whilst you are on holiday. This shorter option allows you to get the break you need without the worry of leaving your loved one alone. This option is great for when you need regular help. Our carers can arrange to come daily or weekly and fit around your schedule giving you the change to regularly rest. 

Respite Care for the Elderly

While our respite care services are available to everyone, our Care Experts have a deep understanding of the unique needs of older individuals. For many, it’s not just about practical assistance but also the warmth of companionship—something especially meaningful for elderly loved ones who may feel isolated. We’re here to offer not just care, but connection, creating moments that bring comfort and joy.

Getting in touch

If you think Respite Care is right for you, we’d love to hear from you. Whatever your need, search for your local office below to get in touch and we’ll see how we can help.

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East Midlands

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FAQ

Everything you need to know about Respite care

As the name implies, respite care is a type of temporary care when a care assistant takes over for a person’s regular carer, allowing them to take a break from their caring duties to focus on rest and recuperation, personal errands, or work. Respite care is divided into two types: short-term and long-term. Short-term respite care is typically arranged for a fixed period, whereas long-term respite care typically recurs at specified intervals, such as weekends or on specific days.
Respite care is a bespoke type of care tailored to an individual's unique needs and preferences. That said, it typically involves a care assistant handling the duties of someone’s regular carer, including household chores, personal care, overnight care, and support with everyday tasks such as shopping and meal preparation.
No matter how devoted you are, caring for a loved one can be physically and emotionally tiring. Moreover, life doesn’t always run smoothly and personal issues—such as work demands or family emergencies—can crop up and further complicate matters. Respite care is important for you and your loved one. For you, it allows you the time to either unplug and recharge or handle any other personal or work tasks, safe in the knowledge that your loved one is fully supported. For your loved one, it means that there’s no break in their care while you’re temporarily absent, meaning they’ll get the support they need, whatever that may be.
That depends on your needs. Respite care can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks. For example, you may use respite care to ensure your loved one is supported while you go on a family holiday. Alternatively, you may only need someone to cover you once a week—or even as a one-off— as you attend to personal errands.
To arrange respite care with us, simply get in touch with your local Bluebird Care provider for a no-hassle, no-obligation chat about your needs. From there, we’ll help you decide on the type and length of care that’s best for you, considering your loved one’s needs.

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Home Care

Home Care means different things to different people. From a quick visit to drop off medication, to overnight care so your loved one can rest without worry. Whatever your family needs, we're here to help.

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