There are several ways that you can get a break from caring, from an hour or two, to several weeks; depending on what is appropriate to you and the person you care for.

Please access our Factsheet Orderline for additional information and to request a copy of The Care Services Directory.

Short break service

A short break service (previously known as a sitting service) for unpaid or family carers is available from Dorset County Council.  In order to qualify for this service, family carers will need to meet set criteria and will then be registered.  Those approved to receive the service will then be referred to Help and Care (opens in a new window) , a local independent charity, who have been commissioned to provide this service on behalf of Dorset County Council.

Family carers wishing to be registered for this service should contact the Adult Access Team.  A carers caseworker or care manager will contact you to complete a carers assessment. 

The short break service is provided through approved care agencies and there is a maximum hourly allowance and a small hourly administration charge payable for this service (full details will be provided during the assessment process).

Day care

The person you care for may be able to attend a day centre, or a care or nursing home, depending on their needs. Transport for day care can sometimes be arranged, if required.

Longer breaks

The person you care for may be able to spend time away in a care or nursing home, depending on the level of care they need. This could be for a weekend, week or fortnight as needed, and can be booked in advance to ensure both family carer and cared for person receive regular respite. It may be possible for someone to come and 'live in' with the person you care for, to take over your caring tasks while you take a break for a few days or longer.

All cases are considered on an individual basis and subject to meeting criteria.  To be assessed for this service if you are a new customer or have no current involvement with us, please contact the Adult Access Team.

If you currently receive a service from us, please contact your allocated worker at the social care local office.

Making choices

Within the different approaches outlined above, there are various schemes tailored to meet the needs of people with particular needs, such as those with a learning or physical disability who may have specific care needs.

For further information on what may be available, contact your care manager if you have one or the Adult Access Team.