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Caring for a loved one is one of life’s most rewarding, selfless and compassionate things you can do, but it’s also one of the most demanding – emotionally, physically and mentally. From managing daily routines to attending medical appointments, to juggling your everyday responsibilities and keeping up with your social life, the responsibilities can pile up quickly and can also leave you feeling drained.

It’s easy to forget that while your loved one needs support, you need care too.

That’s where respite care comes in: to give you time to pause, breathe and return to caregiving with renewed energy – while ensuring your loved one continues to receive safe, professional, and compassionate support.

What is Respite Care?

Respite care is short-term support that allows family carers to take a break while their loved one is cared for by trained professionals. It can be arranged for just a few hours, a day, or even longer, depending on your needs.

Common types of respite care include:

• In-Home Respite Care: A professional carer comes into the home to provide support.
• Adult Day Services: Daytime programmes offering activities, meals, and supervision.
• Short-Term Residential Care: Temporary stays in a care home or assisted living facility for 24/7 support.

Why Taking a Break Matters

Caregiving without rest can lead to exhaustion, stress, and burnout. Signs you may need respite include:

• Fatigue and irritability
• Chronic stress and anxiety
• Difficulty focusing or making decisions
• Feelings of isolation or guilt

Taking a break is not a weakness; it’s a way of ensuring you can continue caring with patience, compassion, and energy.

How Respite Care Supports You

Stepping back gives you time to:

• Look after your health: Attend appointments, exercise, or simply catch up on sleep.
• Relieve stress: Reduce anxiety and restore balance in your life.
• Reclaim your time: Enjoy hobbies, see friends, or just relax without constant responsibility.
• Feel reassured: Knowing your loved one is being cared for by professionals you can trust.

When you care for yourself, you’re in a stronger position to care for your loved one.

How Respite Care Supports Your Loved One

Respite care isn’t just about giving you a break; it also benefits the person you care for:

• Social Engagement: Meeting new people and participating in activities can be stimulating and enjoyable
• Professional Support: Trained caregivers ensure your loved one’s needs are met safely and effectively
• Variety: New routines and environments can provide enrichment and mental stimulation

Many carers worry their loved one will feel abandoned, but often the opposite happens – respite provides variety and new positive experiences.

How Angel Carers Can Help

At Angel Carers, we understand how difficult it can be to step back. That’s why we work with you to create a personalised respite care plan that ensures continuity and comfort for your loved one.

Our respite carers can provide:

• Personal care and mobility support
• Medication management
• Meal preparation and light housekeeping
• Companionship and emotional support
• Consistent routines tailored to your family’s preferences

With more than 30 years of experience supporting families across Dorset, Devon, and South Somerset, we’re here to make sure both you and your loved one feel supported.

📞 Ready to Talk? We’re Here to Help

You deserve a break. Taking time to rest isn’t selfish—it’s essential for your health and for the quality of care you give.

Respite care allows you to step back with confidence, knowing your loved one is safe, supported, and cared for with dignity.

👉 Contact Angel Carers today, or call us on 01308 459204 or email us at contact@angelcarers.com to discuss your needs.

We offer a free Home Care Assessment to create a personalised plan that works for you and your loved one.

For more information, check out our page on Respite Care, Costs & funding and Our Services.