Who pays for respite care?

Caring for a loved one is a rewarding journey, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding.  

Whether you’re supporting a family member with age-related needs, dementia, or a chronic health condition, balancing caregiving responsibilities with personal commitments can sometimes feel overwhelming. This is where respite care can make a real difference. 

But what is it and who pays for respite care?  

Respite care involves temporarily changing the person who provides care for a sick or disabled person. This allows primary caregivers to take a break while ensuring their loved one continues to receive quality care.  

It may also be useful as a stepping stone to longer term care and allows you to essentially get a ‘preview’ of the services a care provider offers before committing to permanent arrangements.  

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about what respite care is, the costs involved, who pays for respite care and the benefits. Whether you're considering respite care for yourself or someone close to you, this guide will help you make an informed choice for a smoother, more balanced caregiving experience.

What is respite care?

Respite care is a form of temporary support designed to give you a break from your daily responsibilities. It allows you to step away for a few hours, days, or even weeks, while ensuring your loved one is still cared for by trained professionals.

This short-term care can be provided in various settings, including at home, at a care facility, or at an adult day care centre, depending on the specific needs and preferences of the family.

The goal of respite care is twofold: to offer you essential time for rest and to provide your loved one with a safe and supportive environment where they can engage in activities, receive help with personal needs, and enjoy a change of scenery.

This service can also be invaluable if your loved one has complex care needs, whether they are dealing with age-related conditions, physical disabilities, or mental health challenges.

To discover more about respite care, you can find additional information on our website.

How much does respite care cost?

The amount you will pay for respite care varies depending on the type of care that is required. For example, the cost of arranging in-home respite care will differ from placing your loved one in a temporary respite care facility.

It will also depend on your loved ones needs, where they live, and the specific provider that is chosen to administer their care.

Who pays for respite care?

The question of who pays for respite care will be determined by your loved one’s financial circumstances. Typically, if you are a higher earner, then you will be responsible for paying for care. However, you may be entitled to some help from the local authority.

Here are the main options:

Self-funded (private pay): Many families pay out of pocket for respite care services. This option provides the most flexibility, allowing families or individuals to choose the type and duration of care that best suits their needs. Costs will depend on whether care is provided in the home, through an adult day centre, or at a care facility. Our website contains more information on self funded care and the financial support that is available for those that are paying for their own care or that of a loved one.

Local authority funding: Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for financial assistance through your local authority. After a needs assessment, the local council may contribute to the cost of respite care, particularly if the person you are caring for qualifies based on their health or financial situation. Eligibility criteria and the level of support vary, so it’s worth checking with your local council.

Charitable grants and organisations: Some charities and non-profits offer grants or subsidised respite care services. Others may also provide free or subsidised sitting services or befriending services, which gives you the chance to have some time to yourself. Organisations like Carers Trust or Age UK provide support or resources for eligible individuals, especially for those who are primary caregivers.

NHS Continuing Healthcare Funding: In certain cases, if the person being cared for has complex health needs, they may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC), which can cover the cost of respite care as part of a broader package. To be eligible for this support, an assessment will need to be completed, and approval depends on the individual’s healthcare requirements.

Insurance coverage: If your loved one has long-term care insurance, the policy may cover some or all respite care expenses. It’s important to review the policy details, as coverage varies depending on the provider and plan.

What are the benefits of respite care?

One of the main benefits of respite care is that it allows you to take a break from your usual caregiving duties and recharge your batteries, giving you the time you need to focus on your own health, wellbeing, and personal commitments.

This essential pause can help prevent burnout, reduce stress, and enable you to return to your role with renewed energy and resilience.

Here are some of the other benefits of respite care:

Enhanced quality of life for the caregiver: A temporary pause from caregiving duties offers you the opportunity to attend to your personal needs, spend time with friends and family, or focus on hobbies and interests. This personal time is vital for a healthy work-life balance, making it more likely that you will come back to your role with renewed energy.

Improved wellbeing for the care recipient: Respite care provides a change of environment and often includes professional, specialised care. Your loved one may benefit from activities tailored to their abilities, social interaction, and a fresh routine. This positive engagement can improve their mood, cognitive function, and overall wellbeing.

Access to professional support: Respite care providers are trained in handling a variety of care needs, from assistance with daily tasks to medical support. This professional care can give you peace of mind, knowing your loved one is in experienced hands and receiving appropriate care tailored to their health requirements.

Stronger family relationships: Regular breaks allow you to maintain a sense of balance and a positive mindset, which can enhance family dynamics and prevent strain in your relationship with the person you care for. Having the flexibility to take a break without feeling guilty or anxious helps you to continue supporting your loved ones over the long term.

Planning for the future: If you are considering longer-term care options, respite care provides a trial run in different care settings. This experience can help you and your loved one assess needs, preferences, and comfort with various types of professional support, allowing for more informed decisions about future care arrangements.

To learn more about respite care and when it might benefit you or a loved one, check out our blog, ‘Signs it might be time to consider respite care for your loved one.’

Who arranges respite care?

So now we’ve discussed who pays for respite care, you may be wondering, ‘who arranges respite care?’ The answer depends on whether you have had a needs assessment and the type of assessment conducted by the local council.

In certain areas, respite care is arranged based on a carer’s assessment, while in other cases, it may come through a needs assessment for the person receiving care. If either assessment identifies a need for respite, the local council should step in to provide assistance.

Financial support from the council may also be an option to help cover respite care expenses. However, since respite services are means-tested, you or your loved one may need to contribute towards the overall cost based on financial eligibility.

Looking for respite care?

If you are looking for a care provider that can provide respite care, or even longer term services, then head over to our directory and enter your location to view a list of providers in your area.

Alternatively, you can use our Shortlisting Tool and answer a few questions to receive a list of care providers that are more relevant to your specific circumstances.

Our friendly advice team is also on hand to help on 01892 335 330.