Carer breaks
Regular breaks from caring can benefit both you and the person you care for.
Replacement care services available
Supported activity sessions
The person you care for could go to a supported day service, social group or activity session. This gives them the opportunity to get out of the house, take part in activities and socialise while you take some time for yourself.
The Shared Lives breaks
This links the person you care for with a trained carer to provide care and support while you take a break. This can be in their own home, in your home or out and about. Breaks can be flexible, ranging from a few hours to overnight or longer stays.
Short breaks for children and young people
Find out about the options available with SEND – Reading’s Local Offer or call the Family Information Service on 0118 937 3777 option 2.
Sitting services / replacement care
Some organisations provide trained carers to sit with the person you care for for a few hours to allow you to do other things.
Residential respite breaks
The person you care for could have a short-term stay in a residential or care home, allowing to take a complete break from caring. For further information about local respite and short breaks services, please visit the Reading Services Guide Reading Directory | Listings in Respite care and short breaks. If you are facing a crisis or need respite during out of hours, please contact the Emergency Duty Service (EDS) on 01344 351 999 or visit Emergency Duty Service (EDS) – Reading Borough Council
Accessible holidays
Accessible breaks, holidays and days out:
Paying for breaks
If the need for breaks has been identified through a social care assessment and the services agreed are included in the Personal Budget Support Plan, the cost of this care (including a maximum of 28 nights residential respite) will be covered by the weekly charge. Please refer to care charges for more information.