Short breaks
Short breaks offer the opportunity for children and young people with complex health needs to be fully cared for by trained professionals. They allow the whole family to be together and to be supported in the care of their child, or it may offer care solely for the child or young person.
We can give you advice on how and when you are able to book hospice stays. In addition to planned respite nights, emergency stays can be arranged. These are organised on an “as needed” basis.
The way families use their respite stays is determined to suit their personal circumstances, we aim to be as flexible as possible in responding to needs. Some families prefer long visits while others might choose a weekend every few months. Please feel free to discuss your individual needs with us.
Your first visit
We usually suggest you and your family make an initial day or overnight visit so we can begin to get to know each other. It is very important to us we continue to care for your child in the same way you do at home and that your child trusts us and feels safe in our care. This is best achieved by caring alongside you for at least the first visit, and for as many visits afterwards as is considered necessary.
During this visit you will meet your contacts and they will show you around so you are familiar with the facilities and able to make the best advantage of them. They can also answer your questions and determine how you would like us to help you.
We will ask questions about your child’s care needs, usual routine, likes and dislikes to help us to gain a better understanding of your child’s needs and how to make their stay comfortable, familiar and enjoyable. We record this information in a personalised Care Plan to ensure the usual pattern of care is followed every stay. This Care Plan will be reviewed and developed at regular intervals and is available for you to read and update with the Care Team. If you wish to have access to other notes then this can also be arranged with the Head of Care.
Prior to your first visit, and all subsequent visits, a member of the Care Team will contact you. This allows them to answer your practical questions and also explore any problems and concerns you might have.
If you require any further advice, or would like to make a referral please contact us.
