The power of a break. Why respite matters
Carers are holding families together, enabling those they care for to get the most out of life, making an enormous contribution to society and saving the economy billions of pounds.
Yet we hear so many times that carers are stretched to the limit. If you’re an unpaid carer in West Sussex, you might be juggling medical appointments, medication schedules, personal care, and household tasks…often with little time left for you.
This is where respite makes all the difference to someone in a caring role.
What is respite?
Respite can mean different things to different people. It might be residential respite for the person you care for so you can stay at home and have some time to yourself. It might be meaningful day time activities for the person you care for or you might have a different idea altogether about what a break means to you.
Respite isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.
Why respite matters for carers
- You can’t pour from an empty cup.
Without rest, carers are more likely to experience burnout, stress, anxiety, and physical health issues. Respite helps prevent this by giving you breathing space to care for yourself. - Time to reconnect with yourself.
Caring can feel all-consuming. Respite helps you rediscover who you are outside of your caring role and reconnect with your own interests, relationships, and identity. - It improves the quality of care.
Taking a break often makes carers feel more emotionally available, patient, and resilient. When you look after yourself, you’re better able to support the person you care for. - It’s okay to ask for help.
Many carers feel guilty for taking a break. But accessing respite doesn’t mean you’re letting someone down, it means you’re recognising your own needs, which is a sign of strength, not weakness.
What respite support is available to carers in West Sussex?
Once registered with Carers Support, one of the wellbeing workers can discuss carers respite and opportunities that are available to suit your situation. Or you can discuss ideas for you to make your own enquiries, depending on what you like to do.
This page on our website lists the providers, near you, offering a variety of respite services. Please note all sessions need to be booked prior to attendance and please call the service provider directly.
Our friendly team can guide you through what’s available and help you access the right type of support.
Are you registered with Carers Support?
If you’re not yet registered with us, your first step is simply letting us know you’re a carer. Once registered, we can work with you to explore respite options that suit your circumstances.
Click here to register as a carer
