Carer Breaks

There are a number of ways in which carers can take time out from their caring role depending on what suits them and the person they care for.

Some of the options available include:

  • A paid carer may support the person being cared for to take part in a community activity while the carer has a break from their caring role
  • They may also provide support in the person's own home while the carer goes out or takes part in an activity of their choice, rather than looking after the person they care for
  • The paid carer may stay overnight to support the person being cared for, providing the opportunity for the carer to go away overnight or get some rest
  • The person cared for may go into a care home or residential respite for one or more nights

Some of the support identified above may be available through Adult Social Care following an assessment of the person's or carer's needs. You can find out more information about the assessment process


How much does it cost?

There may be a cost for your services. This will depend on the type and amount of support you receive. To see if you can get help towards the cost of your care, a financial assessment will need to be carried out. You can find out more information on the financial assessment 

There are a number of options available for you to choose how the support you need is provided.

Direct Payments are available to people who have been assessed as requiring a care package. You can find more information on the Personal Budgets webpages


Carer Break Vouchers

This is a scheme that gives carers more flexibility in arranging breaks at a time that suits them and the  person they care for. If you would like to, you can use a care provider for day care or a short break.

In order to receive vouchers the person you care for must have been assessed by Adult Social Care. You can find out more information about the assessment process

If you feel you would benefit from this service please contact us


Further Information

More information can be found on short breaks for disabled people

For more information on carer support services, including accessible and supported holidays for disabled people/and carers visit the Darlington Carers Support Service website [external link]