Respite Care in Bristol

Bristol's neighbourhoods, from Clifton and Redland to Bedminster, Fishponds and Southmead, each have their own character, and many carers want respite that keeps their loved one connected to the community they know. Comparing local providers is the easiest way to find that.

Home care gives you a regular break with visits that fit your week, and companionship care is a good choice when your loved one mainly needs company and encouragement. For longer breaks, short stays in Bristol care homes and nursing homes provide round the clock care, including specialist dementia support.

Carers Support Centre Bristol offers unpaid carers advice, groups and help with planning breaks. Bristol City Council can carry out a carer's assessment, which may lead to help with the cost of respite.

Local support, NHS and funding in Bristol

Bristol City Council is responsible for adult social care in Bristol. Ask them for a needs assessment for the person you care for and a carer’s assessment for yourself. If you are eligible, the council may arrange or help pay for respite, usually after a financial assessment, and some families use direct payments to arrange care themselves. Visit the Bristol City Council website.

If your loved one’s needs are mainly health related, ask their GP or social worker about NHS continuing healthcare, which is arranged and paid for by the NHS. The NHS guide to carer breaks and respite care also sets out the options.

Benefits can help with the cost. Attendance Allowance is not means tested and is paid to people over State Pension age who need help with care, and Carer’s Allowance may be available if you care for 35 hours a week or more. Our guide to funding respite care and carer’s assessment guide explain more.

Your local Age UK may offer carers support and sitting services, and you can search for charity grants towards the cost of a break through Turn2us.

Booking respite care in Bristol

Before you book, check the provider’s latest inspection report from the CQC and ask about availability, the minimum length of stay and what is included in the price. Short stay places in Bristol can fill up around school holidays and Christmas, so it helps to enquire a few weeks ahead. If this is your first break, a few home care visits or a short trial stay can help your loved one settle.

Every provider listed here can be contacted directly through respite-care.co.uk. Use the filters to narrow by type of care or condition, then send a free, no obligation enquiry to the providers that suit you. If you are new to arranging a break, our guide to getting a carer’s assessment explains how to ask the council for help with the cost.