What Is Respite Care and Why Funding Matters

Respite care gives unpaid carers a much needed chance to rest, recharge, and look after their own wellbeing. Funding is important because even a short break can come with a cost, and many families are unsure where to turn for help. The good news is that there are several options available through local authorities, national benefits, charities, and flexible payment choices.

Local Authority Funding Through a Care and Support Assessment

Your local council may be able to contribute toward the cost of respite care. This begins with a Care and Support Assessment for the person who needs care, followed by a Carers Assessment for you as the unpaid carer.

If the assessment shows that respite is required to meet eligible needs, the council may provide:

Direct Payments

You receive the funds yourself and choose your own respite provider, giving you full control.

Council Arranged Respite

The local authority arranges a break directly with a provider on your behalf.

Financial support will depend on individual circumstances and a financial assessment, but many families are surprised to find they qualify for part funding or full funding.

Carers Allowance and Support Through the Welfare System

Some carers receive Carers Allowance or Universal Credit which can help with overall household and care related expenses. While these benefits do not pay for respite directly, they can create a helpful financial buffer when planning a break.

You may also be eligible for Carer Support Grants available in certain regions of the United Kingdom. These small grants are designed to support wellbeing and can sometimes be used toward respite.

NHS Continuing Healthcare

In some cases, the person receiving care may qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare. When this happens, the NHS covers the full cost of care needs, which can include respite. This is usually for people with complex ongoing health needs.

If the person you support receives NHS funded care, it is worth checking whether respite is included within their package.

Charity Support and National Organisations

A number of charities offer grants or financial assistance to help carers take a break. These may include:

Carers Trust

The Family Fund

Condition specific charities such as those supporting dementia, Parkinsons, cancer, or learning disabilities

Grants vary and may not always be available, but they are a valuable option to explore.

Self Funded Respite Care

Many families choose to self fund respite care because it offers complete flexibility. You can select the provider, the length of the break, and the type of support needed. Some providers also offer:

Pay as you go respite visits

Short stay packages

Interest free installment plans

This can make short breaks more manageable and easier to plan.

Employer Support for Working Carers

If you are working, check what support your employer offers. Some workplaces provide paid carer leave, flexible working adjustments, or employee assistance funds. These can make planning respite much easier.

How to Start Applying for Funding

Here is a simple step by step approach:

Contact your local council and request a Care and Support Assessment.

Ask for your own Carers Assessment at the same time.

Explore eligibility for Direct Payments.

Check possible benefits and grants.

Contact charities that support your specific caring situation.

Speak to respite providers to understand flexible funding options.