Short breaks

Caring for someone else can be emotionally and physically tiring. Sometimes having a short break, anything from just a few hours to a few weeks, can mean a lot.

What types of break may be available?Family and friends

Many carers find that a friend or family member may be able to provide care or support so that they can take a break.

If you have no one able to do this you may still be able to take a break in other ways.

Support from Adult Social Care services

If you are caring for someone who is eligible for support from Adult Social Care, you will be entitled to a Carers Assessment. In Camden, a carers assessment is called a Carers Conversation.

A Carers Conversation is for you to talk to us about how you can take a break from caring. In Camden, there are a number of ways that you could have a break with support from Adult Social Care.

Examples of support from Adult Social Care

Services at home - These could be services such as a sitting service where a Care Worker comes into the home to keep the person you care for company whilst you have some time off to go out or rest.

You may be offered a package of care for a set period of time/ number of weeks that would involve supporting the person you care for with the tasks you usually support them with, to enable you to go away and have a break from your caring responsibilities.

Services near the person's home - The person you care for may be able to attend day centres for older people, activity groups or clubs during the day and sometimes in the evening. You will be able to take a break from caring whilst they are away from home.

Residential or nursing care - For longer periods that cover both day and night, it may be possible for the person you care for to stay in a residential or nursing home. This gives you a complete break from caring. 

Camden Adult Social Care may charge for some services. Please ask about any charges. We will also give you this information before arranging a break.