What this guide covers
- Typical respite care costs in the UK
- The different types of respite care available
- Factors that affect pricing
- Funding options that may be available
- Benefits and support that could help with costs
- Questions to ask when comparing providers
- How CHS Healthcare can help you understand your options
What does respite care cost?
Respite care costs vary depending on how care is delivered and the level of support required.
Residential respite care
Short stays in a care home often range from £230 to £400 per day, depending on the level of care and location. Higher costs are usually linked to nursing care, dementia support or specialist needs.
In‑home respite care
Care provided through scheduled visits at home may cost between £35 and £45 per hour, depending on the provider, location and level of care required.
Live‑in respite care
Where a carer stays in the home, costs typically range from £1,300 to £2,000 per week, depending on care complexity, night‑time needs and mobility support.
Emergency respite care
Urgent or short‑notice arrangements can be more expensive due to availability and the need to put care in place quickly.
CHS helps families compare quotes so you can understand what is included and how options differ.
What affects the cost of respite care?
Several factors influence how much respite care will cost, and these can vary significantly from one situation to another.
The type of care is the most significant factor, with residential, visiting and live‑in care priced differently. Costs may increase where carers require specialist dementia training or experience supporting more complex conditions.
The intensity of care is also important. This includes the level of support needed with personal care, mobility or supervision, as well as whether care is required overnight.
Location can affect pricing, with costs generally higher in some regions. The length of stay may also influence overall cost, particularly for short or irregular periods.
In urgent situations, short‑notice availability can increase costs. Additional elements such as meals, activities or specialist equipment may also be included, depending on the provider.
Who pays for respite care?
Who pays for respite care depends on individual circumstances, including care needs, financial situation and whether there are any health‑related funding entitlements.
Some people will pay privately, while others may be eligible for support from the Local Authority, the NHS or charitable organisations. In many cases, funding may only cover part of the cost, so understanding how this applies to your situation is important.
The options below explain the main funding routes and what they typically involve.
Local authority
Local Authorities may contribute to respite care costs following a care needs assessment and a financial assessment. This support is means‑tested, meaning the amount you receive depends on income, savings and assets.
If eligible, the Local Authority may help cover part or all of the cost or provide a personal budget that can be used to arrange care. In some cases, they may also suggest approved providers or frameworks to use.
It is important to understand that funding levels vary by area and may not cover all available options. CHS can help you understand what is likely to be available and how this affects your choices.
NHS
The NHS may fund respite care where there is a primary health need. This is usually assessed through NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) or, in some cases, short‑term support following hospital discharge.
CHC funding is not means‑tested but is based on clinical need. If someone qualifies, the NHS may cover the full cost of care, including respite provision where appropriate.
Short‑term NHS funding may also be available after a hospital stay, particularly where temporary support is needed to maintain recovery at home and reduce the risk of readmission.
Charities
Some charities offer financial support or grants towards respite care, particularly for individuals living with specific conditions such as dementia, cancer or neurological conditions.
These grants are usually application‑based and may have criteria around income, diagnosis or circumstances. They are often used to contribute to short‑term care costs rather than long‑term arrangements.
Availability varies, so it can be helpful to explore this alongside other funding options.
Self-funding
Many families pay for respite care privately, particularly where funding is not available or does not meet the level of support required.
In these cases, costs will depend on the type of care, provider and level of support needed. Understanding what is included in each quote is important, as services can vary between providers.
CHS Healthcare helps families compare options clearly, so you can see how costs differ and choose a provider that fits both care needs and budget.
Planning ahead for future care decisions
Respite care is often arranged during periods of uncertainty. It may be used while someone recovers from illness, when long-term care options are being considered or when a family carer needs a break.
Using respite care can provide valuable time to understand future needs, explore longer-term options and seek advice before making important decisions.
Some families also choose to review legal arrangements, such as Lasting Power of Attorney, to ensure trusted individuals are able to support future decisions if required. While not directly related to respite care funding, planning ahead can make future care arrangements easier to manage.
Your next steps with CHS Healthcare
Understanding costs is often the first step in deciding what type of respite care is appropriate.
CHS Healthcare provides independent, adviser‑led guidance, helping you understand your options, compare providers and see how costs differ in practice. We do not provide care ourselves and our service is available at no cost to families.
If you are unsure what type of care is needed or how funding applies, we can help you work through your options and take the next step with clarity.
Speak to an advisor
FAQs
1. How far in advance should I start planning respite care?
Where possible, planning in advance gives you more choice. However, respite care can also be arranged at short notice where needed.
2. What information do I need to provide to you?
We will ask about care needs, routines, mobility, location and any preferences so we can recommend suitable providers.
3. How do you match my loved one with the right respite care provider?
We compare providers based on care needs, experience, availability and practical fit, then provide a shortlist with clear explanations.
4. Can you help me understand the differences between providers?
Yes. We explain how providers differ in terms of care approach, cost and availability so you can make an informed decision.
5. Can you help if I’m unsure what type of respite care is right for us?
Yes. We can talk through the options and help you understand what level of support is appropriate for your situation.
