Our Care
Time for you, without the worry
Respite care across Newcastle, North Tyneside including North Shields, South Tyneside, Gateshead, Ponteland and selected communities across Northumberland, giving family carers planned time away while their loved one continues receiving familiar, personalised support.
Looking after the carer too
Caring for someone you love can be rewarding, but it can also take a lot of time and energy. Having regular time for yourself can help you rest, attend appointments, work, spend time with family or simply have a break from your caring responsibilities.
Respite care provides planned support for the person you care for, built around their usual routines, preferences and care plan. Wherever possible, familiar carers can provide companionship, personal care, meals, medication support and help them continue with the things they enjoy while you take some time for yourself.
What respite support can include
- Regular short breaks each week
- Cover while you work or study
- Support during your own appointments
- Planned support for longer periods, subject to assessment and availability
- Personal care and help getting ready
- Meals, drinks and medication prompting
- Company, hobbies and time out of the house
- Everyday household support as part of the agreed care plan
Respite care is planned support at home. It does not replace clinical, nursing or emergency services, which should always be contacted when someone needs urgent medical help.
How respite care works
- Step 01
Understanding the routine
We learn about the person's routines, preferences, care needs and the things that help their day run smoothly.
- Step 02
A gentle introduction
Where possible, we introduce carers before respite support begins so everyone has the chance to become familiar and comfortable.
- Step 03
Support planned around you
Respite support can be arranged for regular visits or longer periods depending on the person's needs, your plans and our availability. We agree the arrangements with you in advance.
- Step 04
Keeping in touch
We agree how you would like to be updated while you are away, while respecting the person's wishes, consent and care arrangements.
Common questions
How much notice do you need?
As much notice as possible is helpful, particularly for longer periods or holidays, because rotas are planned in advance. We will always need to check availability before confirming respite support, so contact the local office and we will tell you honestly what we can arrange.
Can respite be a regular weekly break?
Yes. Regular planned respite visits can be arranged, subject to assessment and availability. Many families use a regular slot each week for shopping, exercise, work or simply time to themselves, and the routine helps everyone settle into it.
Is respite care the same as nursing or emergency care?
No. Respite care is planned home care support and does not replace nursing, clinical or emergency services. If someone needs urgent medical attention, contact NHS 111 or the emergency services.
Which areas do you cover?
Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside including North Shields, South Tyneside, Gateshead, Ponteland and selected communities across Northumberland, including areas such as Ashington and Blyth.
Respite care across Newcastle and surrounding areas
Newcastle upon Tyne • North Tyneside including North Shields • South Tyneside • Gateshead • Ponteland • selected communities across Northumberland such as Ashington and Blyth
See all areas we coverOther support you might need
Personal Care
Discreet, respectful help with washing, dressing and getting ready, at your own pace and in your own way.
Find out more
Dementia Care
Familiar routines and familiar faces, delivered by carers trained in dementia support.
Find out more
Night Care
Reassuring support through the night, from waking visits to a calm presence in the house.
Find out moreCould a little time for yourself help?
Start with a conversation. Our local team can listen to what you and the person you care for need and talk through the respite options available.