Short breaks for carers
A short break allows carers to have time off for themselves while the person they care for receives care in another way.
Many types of short breaks for carers are available, from a simple 'sitting’ service for a few hours in your own home to specialised personal care for either a short or a longer period of time.
Of course, the level of care required will depend on the individual person's needs.
How to get a short break
As a carer you are entitled to a carer's assessment, which looks at your caring role and the impact it has on you personally.
Your assessment may identify a need for you to have some time away from your caring role. Your assessor will go through the options available to you to help you access a short break.
Cost
There is a charge for short breaks that will depend on:
- your circumstances
- the circumstances of the person you care for and the level of support they require
You may be eligible for a carer's direct payment to help towards the cost.