Will Clients Return to a Care Provider After Respite Care?

When arranging respite care, many families ask: “If we use a provider for short-term care, will we return in the future?” While there is no universal statistic, research and sector data highlight clear trends.

High Satisfaction Leads to Repeat Use

Feedback from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and Age UK shows that families who have a positive respite experience are more likely to return. Studies in the UK indicate that 60–75% of families who use respite care will book it again within 12 months, often with the same provider. Professional, reliable, and attentive care are key factors in these repeat bookings.

Trust and Familiarity Are Important

Research published in the Journal of Gerontological Social Work demonstrates that families tend to stick with providers they trust. Continuity and familiarity reduce stress for the care recipient and provide reassurance for families, increasing the likelihood of repeat use.

Respite Care as a Pathway to Longer-Term Care

Around 20–30% of respite stays transition into longer-term or repeat bookings. Many families use respite care to assess a care home or home care provider before committing to ongoing support.

Barriers to Returning

Families may not return if the cost is high, availability is limited, or if the client had a negative experience. Access to funded respite in certain local authority areas can also affect repeat use.

Summary of Key Trends

Approximately two-thirds of clients are likely to return for respite care if satisfied with the service.

Around one in four respite users transition into regular or permanent care with the same provider.

Satisfaction, trust, and continuity are the strongest predictors of whether a family returns.

Respite care is not only a short-term solution for carers but also an opportunity to build confidence in care providers, ensuring ongoing support and peace of mind for families.