Our Respite Care
A warm welcome, however long you stay
What is Respite Care?
Respite care provides short-term support in a care home setting, whether that’s for a few days, a couple of weeks or a longer planned stay. For some people, it’s an opportunity to recover after illness, regain confidence in a temporary care home after hospital stay, or receive additional support while family members take a well-earned break.
For others, respite care is simply a chance to experience life in a care home before making any long-term decisions. Whatever the reason, at Westcott Care, a respite stay offers the same warm welcome, personalised care and sense of community that permanent residents enjoy, with the flexibility to suit individual circumstances.
Whether you’re looking for respite care for elderly relatives, respite care for adults with additional support needs, or simply trying to understand the respite care meaning, our team is here to help.
Who may benefit from Respite Care?
Respite care can support people in many different situations. Whether you’re recovering, exploring future care options or simply looking for a little extra support for a short period, a respite stay can provide reassurance, comfort and peace of mind for both you and your family.
The following individuals may benefit from respite care:
Someone Recovering After Illness Or A Hospital Stay
A short care home stay can provide additional support for everyday tasks such as getting dressed and eating well, whilst strength, confidence and independence are gradually rebuilt, making it an effective form of temporary respite care.
Someone Whose Family Or Support Network Would Benefit From Additional Support
Caring for someone you love can be deeply meaningful, but even the most devoted families sometimes need time to rest, recover or attend to other responsibilities. Respite care offers peace of mind that their loved one is safe, supported and warmly cared for while they take the time they need.
Someone Exploring Long-Term Care Options
A short stay can offer the opportunity to experience life in a care home, meet the team and build confidence before making any longer-term decisions.
A Young Adult With Physical Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Neurological Conditions Or Additional Support Needs
Respite care can provide opportunities to build confidence, enjoy new experiences, develop independence and spend time in a supportive environment, while also giving families and carers valuable time to rest, recharge and focus on their own wellbeing.
Someone Living Alone Who Would Benefit From Extra Support
Whether recovering from illness or simply needing a helping hand, respite care can provide companionship, reassurance and practical support when it's needed most.
Someone Who Would Benefit From More Social Interaction
For people who spend much of their time alone, respite offers opportunities to enjoy activities, build friendships and become part of a welcoming community, whether that means joining a quiz, sharing meals or having someone to discuss the latest episode of ‘The Chase’ with.
Someone Living With Dementia Or Changing Care Needs
Respite care dementia support can provide specialist care tailored to an individual's needs, while also giving families the opportunity to explore what longer-term care may look like if circumstances change.
A Couple Looking For A Change Of Scenery
For some couples, respite care can feel a little like a supported getaway. A stay in one of our homes offers the chance to enjoy new surroundings, beautiful gardens, freshly prepared meals and companionship, all while having the reassurance that support is available whenever it's needed.
Finding the support that’s right
Whether you’re looking for a short stay after illness, exploring care options for the future or arranging a little getaway for a loved one, we’re here to help you understand what’s available. Our team will take the time to listen, answer your questions and help you find the right home and level of support for your circumstances.
1
Let’s have a chat
Tell us about your situation, what support is needed and what you’re hoping to achieve from a respite stay. We’ll help you explore the options available and answer any questions you may have.
2
Spend time in one of our homes
Visit a Westcott home, meet the people who live and work there, have a spot of lunch and get a feel for everyday life. Seeing a home in person can often provide reassurance and confidence about the care on offer.
3
Get to know the team
Meet the people who may be supporting you or your loved one during a respite stay. It’s an opportunity to ask questions, share preferences and understand how care can be tailored to individual needs.
4
Plan your stay with confidence
If respite care feels like the right option, we’ll help you arrange every detail and ensure the experience feels welcoming, comfortable and reassuring from the very beginning.
More than care. A place to belong
Every Westcott home is built on the belief that care should never come at the expense of individuality. Take a closer look at the people, relationships and everyday moments that help our residents continue living life with confidence, comfort and connection.
REVIEWS
A warm welcome, through their eyes
The best way to understand respite care is to hear from the people who have experienced it first-hand. Discover what guests and families have shared about their stays, from short breaks to recovery support and everything in between.
“Brilliant staff. So helpful and a joy to see them. Wish I could take them home with me. Nothing too much trouble.”
Susan G
Respite Resident
“The bedroom that I am in is excellent as well as the ensuite toilet and shower. I have a room with a view. I enjoy the activities; keep fit and the musician. Meals are most enjoyable and very nutritious, and I love the garden, which is amazing, peaceful, and pretty (my secret garden). Wheelchair access is excellent. The laundry service is 5-star luxury. The environment is extremely relaxing and sociable, as well as safe. A thoroughly enjoyable stay, thank you.”
Julie S
Respite Resident
“Mum moved into Clarendon Grange for respite after a period of ill health in hospital. From the minute she moved in she was made to feel welcome. She settled straight away and enjoyed the lovely food and environment. The care and support she got from each and every member of staff was second to none. As a result of the brilliant care, Mum was able to return home feeling much better.”
G.S.
Family member
Short stays, high standards
When you’re arranging respite care, whether for a few days or a few weeks, it’s important to know that the support you’re receiving is held to the highest standards. Independent regulators and professional organisations help ensure every Westcott home delivers safe, compassionate and high-quality care that families can trust.
Let’s talk about what would help most
If you or a loved one needs a little extra support, but you’re not quite sure what form that support should take, our Care Navigation team is here. We’ll listen, get to know your circumstances and help you explore the options available, all without the industry terms and confusing jargon.
From respite care and recovery support to funding, future planning and family conversations, here you’ll find trusted advice and useful resources to help you navigate the questions that matter most.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is respite care only for the elderly?
No. While many respite guests are older adults, respite care can support people of different ages who would benefit from temporary care, recovery support or additional assistance. The most important factor is an individual’s needs, not their age.
What does respite care look like for a young adult?
Many younger adults with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, neurological conditions or additional support needs benefit from respite care for disabled adults and other forms of short-term support.
For some, respite care provides an opportunity to enjoy greater independence, try new activities, build confidence and spend time with new people in a supportive environment. For families and carers, it can offer valuable time to rest and recharge, knowing their loved one is safe, supported and enjoying a positive experience of their own.
Does respite care have to be at a local care home?
Not at all. Some people choose a local home because it’s convenient for family and friends to visit, while others prefer a change of surroundings. Many guests choose respite stays in homes located in attractive rural, coastal or countryside settings, treating their stay as an opportunity to relax and enjoy a different environment.
Is a respite stay a way of getting my loved one into long-term care?
Absolutely not. Respite care is designed to provide short-term support, and many people return home after their stay. While some guests may decide a longer-term move is right for them after experiencing life in a care home, that decision is always theirs to make and is never the purpose of a respite stay.
Can you have a respite visit more than once?
Yes. Many people enjoy regular respite stays throughout the year, whether that’s to provide ongoing support, give family carers a break or simply spend time in an environment where support is readily available. Some guests become familiar faces and look forward to returning.
Can I come for a respite visit at the weekend?
In most cases, yes. Respite care can often begin on a weekday or weekend, depending on availability and individual circumstances. Our team will always do their best to find arrangements that work for you and your family.
Will there be nursing care available during my respite stay?
That depends on the home and your individual needs. Some Westcott homes provide nursing care alongside respite support, while others offer residential care. Our Care Navigation team can help you find the most appropriate home and level of support for your circumstances.
How long can a respite stay last?
Every respite stay is different. Some guests stay for just a few days, while others remain for several weeks. The length of stay can usually be tailored around individual needs, recovery plans or family circumstances.
What should I bring for a respite stay?
We encourage guests to bring comfortable clothing, personal toiletries, favourite books, photographs and any other familiar belongings that help them feel at home. Our team will be happy to advise on anything specific that’s needed before your stay begins.
What are some common words, phrases and terminology I may hear when researching respite care, and what do they mean?
If you’re exploring respite care for the first time, you may come across terms that aren’t part of everyday conversation. Here’s a guide to some of the most common words and phrases you might hear.
Respite Care: Also known as short-term respite care, this is temporary support, usually for a few days, weeks or longer, provided in a care home setting.
Respite Stay: A temporary stay in a care home that provides support, companionship and care without the commitment of moving in permanently.
Short-Term Care: A broad term used to describe care provided for a limited period of time, often including respite care, recovery support or temporary assistance.
Convalescent Care: Support provided following illness, injury or a hospital stay to help someone regain strength, confidence and independence.
Residential Care: Day-to-day support with personal care, meals, medication and everyday living in a care home setting, without the need for regular nursing care.
Nursing Care: Care that includes support from qualified nurses for people with more complex medical or healthcare needs.
Care Assessment: A conversation or assessment used to understand a person’s needs and determine what type of care and support may be appropriate.
Care Plan: A personalised document that outlines how an individual’s care, wellbeing and support needs will be met during their stay.
Person-Centred Care: An approach that focuses on the individual, their routines, preferences, interests and life experiences, rather than simply their care needs.
Carer Respite: A short break that allows family carers to rest, recharge or attend to other responsibilities, while their loved one receives professional support in a safe environment.
Trial Stay: A short stay in a care home that allows someone to experience daily life, meet the team and decide whether longer-term care might be right for them in the future.
Care Navigation: Guidance and support that helps individuals and families understand the options available and find the care that’s most appropriate for their circumstances.
Activities Programme: The range of social, recreational and wellbeing activities available within a care home to help residents stay active, engaged and connected.
Transition Into Care: The process of moving from living independently into a care environment, whether for a short respite stay or a longer-term arrangement.
Next Of Kin: The person nominated to be contacted about a resident’s wellbeing, care arrangements or important decisions when required.