Respite care, is a type of care arrangement designed to give rest or relief to unpaid carers, who are often family caregivers. It aims to support these unpaid carers and give them a break from their caring responsibilities.

Everyone needs a break from time to time and unpaid carers or family members are no different.  It is important that they can have a rest, whether it is a short break to run errands or meet friends, or longer time spent away.  Breaks are good for an unpaid carer's physical and mental well being and most importantly can enhance the relationship with the person they care for.  Respite has also been shown to help sustain family relationships.