Respite Care in Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich
Relationship-led and supportive Respite Care in Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich from compassionate and experienced home care professionals.
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The Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich Respite Care team, here to help every step of the way
With around 22,000 unpaid carers in Wandsworth, and 1 in 5 providing more than 50 hours of care weekly, we understand the vital importance of reliable respite care in Wandsworth, Lambeth and Dulwich. As the only CQC Outstanding-rated provider in the three boroughs – an achievement earned by less than 6% of home care providers nationally – we offer flexible respite care that gives family carers the break they need. Whether it’s a few hours weekly or occasional overnight support, our service adapts to your situation.

Get in touch today to
see how we can help
Get in touch Why Respite Care may be right for you
Taking time to recharge isn’t neglecting your responsibilities – it’s essential for your wellbeing and your loved ones. We start by understanding your loved one’s exact routines, from medication schedules to preferred mealtimes. Our Care Professionals maintain these familiar patterns while you’re away, coordinating with other healthcare providers and support services as needed. Whether you need regular weekly breaks or support for a special occasion, we can often arrange care at relatively short notice.

What we do to care for your loved ones
- We carefully match Care Professionals with clients to ensure a meaningful bond is created.
Home help & meal prep
Keeping the home environment clean, safe, and nourishing with home-cooked meals.Personal care
Assistance with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene, always respecting the dignity of your loved one.Mobility support
Helping your loved one move around their home safely, including transfers and positioning.Health appointment management
We support you to attend those important health appointments.Community engagement
We enable you to continue to do the things you enjoy, be it a visit to the garden centre or your local art group.Transportation
Assistance getting you from A to B, whether it be to go visit a friend or help with your shopping.Medication management
Ensuring medicines are taken correctly and on time, supporting overall health.

My daughter’s live-in carer was exceptional. She was caring, gentle and very kind and supportive of her. She was fun too when needed. She went the extra mile for example staying up with Fran after her finish time in the evening. Also thank you so much to another member of staff, without you both we would not have been able to attend our son’s wedding celebration.
Gill H (Mother of Client)

We were very pleased with the care provided by all the carers. They were punctual, never rushed and very considerate. Always had time for a chat and were very supportive to family and friends. I would not hesitate to recommend your company.
A Q (Friend of Client)

Every step of the process from the initial telephone call, to the first meeting, to matching my aunt with her carer was expertly handled in the most caring, personable and professional manner. The care that my aunt now receives on a daily basis is above and beyond what we could ever have hoped for and we are sincerely grateful to her wonderful carer and to all of the team.
Laura C

We are very happy with the service provide by Home Instead (Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich). The care givers all worked to help Mum stay in her own home. They took the time to talk to her and ensure she was set up for the day. They showed her dignity and respect.
Angela D

The care was easily arranged. My mother’s needs were understood. An excellent carer was matched with my mother, who had been apprehensive until she met the carer. The carer was kind, professional, reliable and got on well with my mother. My mother was fond of her and really appreciated her.
J L (Daughter of Client)

We had a very good experience with Home Instead in Wandsworth. The team looked after my father when he came out of the hospital for what turned out to be the last week or so of his life. One lady was a superbly reassuring presence as we were trying to organise what care we needed, and she was very successful not just in meeting the practical needs that they had but in finding carers who would get along with Dad and who would give Mum the reassurance that she needed. Both he and my mum were just delighted with the support they received from such kind people. We felt in really good hands, which is so valuable in a time of great stress and sadness. Several of the carers went out of their way to send cards and messages after Dad died, which Mum found really touching. Overall, you did a great job for us.
J C (Son of Client)

My mother had home care services from Home Instead that graduated from one visit a day increasing over time to 24-hour end-of-life care at home. The Care Managers were helpful in planning appropriate graduated care as well as explaining and connecting with other services like district nursing and equipment loan services, never overselling their service.
The carers that worked with Mum were exceptional and caring, knowing exactly what she wanted, and allowed her to maintain her dignity. Receiving good care when you are elderly, frail, and vulnerable is so important but difficult to find. The Home Instead app allowed me to see each visit documented. Knowing that she was so well taken care of was such a relief as both my brother and I lived many hours away.
I will always be grateful for the special attention that my mother received that allowed her to pass away peacefully at home. It is the sort of service every elderly person should receive but many sadly don’t.
Pat M (Daughter of Client)

We enquired about 24 hour care from Home Instead. We are delighted we did. My mother had a wonderful time with one of her morning carers. She said this carer was very caring and predicted all her needs, giving her all her meals and general companionship. She also did her washing and light housework. My mother said it was like having one of her family looking after her.
Judy A

All the carers, without exception, have been considerate, thoughtful, cheerful and efficient, providing everything from personal care to general companionship, and dealing with a variety of household tasks. They are quick to notice any signs of ill health and have helped the family with GP and hospital visits. We’re not sure how we’d manage without this great team of people.
M K

My wife and I are Attorneys under a Lasting Power of Attorney for her first cousin who is 87 years old and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s 6 years ago. The Wandsworth office has been caring for her at her home, (where she has lived alone for nearly 50 years) since then and we simply cannot praise them highly enough.
David K

Quality was the driving force behind our decision as we did not want my mum to be rushed or experience inconsistent carers. We met the supervisor and was so impressed at how she went out of her way to engage with mum and involve her in the assessment. The other companies we met could certainly learn a thing or two!
Sharon H

Home Instead have and are continuing to provide excellent personal care for my 92-year-old mother. I am particularly impressed with how quickly and compassionately they were able to respond to my need for providing regular and safe personal care for my mother with very short notice.
Sandra P

Excellent carers who were well matched to the client. Professional, helpful and well trained. The carers always turned up on time and were never substituted.
Kathleen L

Thank you all for the wonderful care you gave my mother and my father over the last seven years. The whole family join with me in thanking you all. When Mum, Dad and I chose Home Instead all those years ago now, we were sure then that we made the right decision, and throughout this time, you have given us a wonderful, caring and very professional service with a very personal and incredibly well-organised approach.
You have proved our decision to be absolutely right for my parents, you gave them the freedom to live the remainder of their lives with greater security and confidence. We owe you a great debt of gratitude.
Hazel B (Daughter of Client)

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you and all of the team at Home Instead for the care that you have provided our parents over the past two and a half years. Without exception, your carers have been kind and compassionate and have made considerable sacrifices in order to improve upon my parents’ quality of life. I believe that their input has enabled us to care for Mum at home right until the end and the fact that we were able to do so has brought us considerable solace during very difficult times.
Gavin D

I am very grateful for your help with sorting the medication issue and also your feedback from your visit yesterday. Mum’s moods are very variable and it can be hard to keep her motivated especially as she can’t go out unless accompanied any more. I know she is very grateful for the various carer’s visits and they do seem to cheer her up most of the time. I am glad you were able to attend yourself.
Once again, many thanks.
Simon

Home Instead have been fantastic with us. They are kind, caring and we feel very safe with them. The Director has gone above and beyond to help us and he has a lovely energy about him. We would strongly recommend them.
James W

My mother has been cared for by Home Instead for 3 years and in that time her carers have been wonderful. They are always on time, polite and courteous and very reliable. I would recommend them to anybody.
James J (Son of Client)

The carers looking after my husband who has dementia are really lovely. Not only are they highly professional and experienced but they also bring fun and humour to his life which has had a big impact on his health and general wellbeing. They are a great credit to Home Instead.
Georgina

My father’s Home Instead caregiver has been amazing. My father is 96 and lives in sheltered accommodation. The carer always arrives with a smile and a handshake and hands him his morning newspaper. The organisation takes great care to support his health, emotional needs and personal safety. The team show great respect towards my father. My mind is at rest because they have never failed to attend. If there needs to be any changes in carer due to sickness or holidays that is taken care of by the office and I am notified. I know my father is in good hands and that makes all the difference to my peace of mind.
Maria I W

At first, looked after my husband who had Alzheimer’s, they were absolutely brilliant – totally trustworthy, kind and pleasant. After that, they looked after me – again brilliant. I would recommend them to anyone and indeed have done so.
S F (Wife of Client)

We are fortunate to have an excellent team helping us care for Mum. The carers are very experienced and have sometimes given us advice. Their suggestions are very welcome especially as Mum gets more frail. She likes and trusts them all. I find the oversight and supervision very reassuring.
H M (Daughter of Client)

My Mother has had Home Instead coming into to her every morning for over 5 years, to help her shower, dress and give her breakfast. She has always liked all the carers and enjoyed their company.
Last week, we wanted to go on holiday and felt we could no longer leave my mother without care. We enquired about 24 hour care from Home Instead. We are delighted we did.
My mother had a wonderful time with one of her morning carers.
She said this carer was very caring and predicted all her needs, giving her all her meals
and general companionship. She also did her washing and light housework.
My mother said it was like having one of her family looking after her. I think they had quite a laugh between them, sharing a few television programmes that they both enjoy.
Home Instead certainly gave us peace of mind that my mother was well looked after during our holiday, and we look forward to our next break now that we know that Home Instead is there to help us.
Judy A (Daughter of Client)

I have been extremely happy with Home Instead service which has been efficient, compassionate, professional and reassuring. The team worked really positively and reactively during a difficult time, with strong communication and faultless support. From the back office to the ‘on the ground’ team, it’s been really great to be able to work with everyone there, even during the most challenging bits, when the sympathy and candour of the team was outstanding, really kept me going!
Anneliese D (Daughter of Client)

My mum in her late 90’s started to have Home Instead, Wandsworth branch, to come into her home to give her a shower, help her dress, give her breakfast, make her bed, tidy the kitchen, and settle her down with a coffee and the morning newspaper until we could take over. This carried on for years. She had the same team of lovely girls, who were very caring, kind and patient. She used to say “they are like part of my family”. When mum reached 100, we felt we could not leave her on her own if we were away. The same team of girls would come in and look after her and give her 24-hour care, which meant they would live with her, give her meals, sleep in her house and be a companion. They did light housework and the laundry. This carried on for a couple of years. When mum reached 102, she needed more support and once again we asked Home Instead for help. Over the last few months, mum has had 24-hr “live-care”. Home Instead are wonderful, catering for all her needs, with compassion.
Judy A
Tailored Respite Care in Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich
“Our carer from Home Instead looked after my dad, who had Parkinson’s, for two years,” shares one daughter on homecare.co.uk. “The carers, without exception, have been considerate, thoughtful, cheerful and efficient, providing everything from personal care to general companionship. They are quick to notice any signs of ill health and have helped the family with GP and hospital visits. The staff at the office are always on hand to answer queries – and have also given the family moral support when times are tough.”
Get in touch today to
see how we can help
Get in touch Trusted Respite Care from experienced home care professionals in Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich
Complex care needs often require specialist understanding. Our Care Professionals complete comprehensive City & Guilds accredited training, including specific modules in dementia care, medication management, and supporting those with limited mobility. Tony O’Flaherty, our owner and local Dementia Champion, ensures our team maintains the highest standards of care, particularly important when providing respite for family carers who need complete confidence in their replacement.

Additional support and activities in Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich
Beyond individual respite support, we’re connected to a network of local carer support services. Our regular community memory cafés for people living with Dementia- the Sunflower in Balham, Butterfly at King’s College Hospital, and Tulip in West Dulwich – provide spaces where both carers and their loved ones can socialise. Through our partnerships with Age UK Lambeth and local healthcare providers, we can help guide you to additional support services in South London.

FAQs
- Which towns and postcodes do the Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich team service?
Our office provides care for people at home in the following areas:
Battersea, Wandsworth, Lambeth, Tulse Hill, Dulwich, Balham, Earlsfield, Herne Hill, Clapham Park, Clapham Junction, Dulwich Village, Southfields, Stockwell, Clapham, Loughborough Junction, Camberwell, Vauxhall, Putney
If your town doesn’t appear above please check the postcodes below to see if we cover your area:
SW11 3, SW18 5, SW8 2, SW4 7, SW11 2, SW11 5, SW18 1, SW18 3, SW8 3, SW8 1, SE24 9, SW9 7, SE21 8, SW9 6, SE5 9, SE5 8, SW4 0, SW8 5, SE21 7, SW18 2, SW18 4, SW11 6, SW12 8, SW4 8, SW4 6, SW12 9, SW4 9, SW12 0, SW9 0, SW11 1, SW9 9, SW8 4, SW11 4, SW15 2, SE24 0, SW9 8
Search here if you cannot see your town or postcode - Is Home Instead Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich a locally owned home care organisation?
Home Instead Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich is one of 250 locally owned offices that collectively form Home Instead UK. Together, we care for 16,000 clients, delivering one million hours of home care each month. This unique combination of community-focused local offices and the resources of a national network enables us to provide personalised, relationship-led care while leading research and innovation that is transforming the experience of aging. Our services include companionship care, personal care, specialist care (including dementia, palliative, and Parkinson’s), and live-in care.
Search here if you cannot see your town or postcode - What is respite care?
Respite care provides temporary relief to primary caregivers by offering trained Care Professionals who care for elderly individuals who require care. This temporary support helps caregivers take breaks, manage burnout, and maintain their own well-being while ensuring the safety and comfort of the person receiving ongoing care.
- How does respite care work?
Trained Care Professionals can step in to provide seamless care, allowing current caregivers a break to rest and recharge. Our respite care services take place in the home of the person receiving the care, making it great for giving a break to the primary caregiver while ensuring that the elderly person in care does not go without support in the meantime and can continue their normal life.
- How do I arrange respite care?
Just contact Home Instead and we will arrange a discussion with you to talk about the kind of support you need and how we can help. You can also reach out directly to our local office in your area, if you prefer.
- Who provides respite care?
All respite care is provided by our experienced and fully trained Care Professionals so both the elderly individual receiving care and their loved ones or existing caregivers can take a break while being confident that they have all the support they need.
- I need respite care at short notice, can you help?
At Home Instead we know about the challenges of being a carer and are here to help no matter what your timelines look like. Please contact us so that we can understand more about how we can provide you with the support you need.
- Do I have to go out while respite care is in place?
Not at all! Existing caregivers don’t have to leave the home whilst we are supporting your loved one, so they can take breaks at home if that is their preference.
- What defines a respite period?
A respite period is a specific duration of time during which primary caregivers receive temporary relief from their caregiving responsibilities. This break allows them to rest, recharge, and attend to personal matters, while trained Care Professionals provide ongoing support for the elderly individuals who have been receiving care. The length of a respite period can vary, ranging from a few hours to several days, depending on the arrangement in place and the needs of the primary caregivers.
- Why is respite care important?
Respite care is crucial for family caregivers, offering them a much-needed break from their responsibilities in tending to elderly family members. This temporary relief prevents caregiver burnout, meaning the primary caregiver can maintain their wellbeing and ability to provide effective long-term care. Additionally, respite care enhances the quality of life for many elderly people by introducing them to new experiences and interactions with different Care Professionals, making for novel interactions while still in the comforts of their own home.
- How much does respite care cost?
The cost of respite care can vary widely based on factors such as location, the level and complexity of care provided, and the duration. Generally, respite care expenses can range from hourly rates to daily or weekly fees. There may be financial assistance for respite care services, particularly for caregivers of elderly individuals with disabilities or special needs. It’s a good idea to contact the local NHS or your council to get a clear understanding of the potential sources of financial support available for your situation, if you have concerns.
- Who pays for respite care?
Respite care funding comes from diverse sources; government initiatives, charitable organisations, insurance provision, or just personal payments. Family caregivers can investigate some or all of these avenues to identify the most fitting and cost-effective approach to support respite care for their specific needs and situation.
- What can respite carers do?
Respite Care Professionals can perform a range of tasks to ensure the well-being and comfort of elderly individuals while providing relief to primary caregivers. These tasks include all the normal things covered with ordinary domiciliary care; assisting with daily activities such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and mobility support. Respite Care Professionals may also engage in social interactions, provide companionship, supervise recreational activities, and ensure safety. Their responsibilities are tailored to the care recipient’s specific needs, ensuring continuity of care and support during the temporary relief period for primary caregivers.
- What is respite care for dementia?
Respite care for dementia is a specialised service designed to provide temporary relief and support to caregivers of elderly people living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Caregiving for someone with dementia can be physically and emotionally demanding, and respite care offers caregivers a chance to rest, recharge, and take care of their own needs. During respite care, trained Care Professionals offer supervision, assistance with daily activities, and a safe environment for those with dementia. The wellbeing of seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s is often significantly improved by remaining in a familiar environment, so our domiciliary care approach to deliver respite care at home is often the best solution to keep them calm and comfortable.
- Who is entitled to respite care?
Respite care is typically available to family caregivers and individuals providing support to elderly adults in need of care. Eligibility is determined by factors like caregiving intensity and the care recipient’s requirements, aiming to offer essential breaks and assistance to dedicated caregivers. If you’re a caregiver looking for respite support, please contact us to see how we can help you.
- Who needs respite care?
Respite care is needed for primary caregivers who are taking care of elderly family members, offering them essential breaks to prevent exhaustion and maintain their own health. Elderly individuals, whether living alone or with caregivers, can also benefit from respite care to ensure some companionship, assistance with daily activities, and medical supervision, for example for post-operative recovery periods or temporary feeding support.
- What is in-home respite care?
In-home respite care is a valuable service designed to provide temporary relief and support to primary caregivers within the familiar setting of their own home. This type of respite care involves trained Care Professionals who come to the primary caregiver’s residence to care for their loved one. In-home respite care offers caregivers a chance to take a break, tend to personal matters, or simply recharge while knowing that their loved one is in capable hands. During these sessions, the respite care provider offers companionship, assistance with daily tasks, and, if necessary, medical supervision. In-home respite care not only benefits caregivers by preventing burnout but also helps maintain a sense of normalcy and comfort for the care recipient.
- What is the purpose of respite care?
The purpose of respite care is to offer temporary relief and support to caregivers who are responsible for elderly family members. Caregiving can be emotionally and physically demanding, often leading to stress and burnout. Respite care provides caregivers with essential breaks, allowing them to rest, recharge, and tend to their own well-being, while ensuring that the elderly person receiving care still has all the support they need.
- How long can Respite Care last?
The duration of respite care can vary depending on the needs of the caregiver and the individual receiving care. Respite care can be as short as a few hours, providing caregivers with a temporary break to run errands or recharge. It can also extend to several days or even weeks, allowing caregivers to take a more extended break or address personal matters. Some caregivers may need emergency or crisis respite care for shorter periods, while planned or scheduled respite care may be for a more extended period of time.
- When do you know if you need more than respite care?
You might need more than respite care if the care recipient’s needs become increasingly complex, you experience persistent caregiver burnout, safety concerns arise, your health deteriorates despite respite care, social needs go beyond the scope you can handle, specialist medical or complex care is required, or long-term planning becomes necessary such as, for example, situations necessitating palliative care.
- What is short term respite care?
Short-term respite care refers to a temporary break or relief provided to primary caregivers of elderly individuals in need of care. During short-term respite care, trained Care Professionals take over the caregiving responsibilities, allowing the primary caregiver to rest, recharge, and attend to personal matters. This type of care can range from a few hours to several days, offering caregivers a brief respite while ensuring the care recipient’s well-being and safety.
- Respite care at home vs residential respite care
Respite care can be divided into two primary types: respite care at home and residential respite care. In the former, caregivers are supported by trained Care Professionals who provide assistance with daily tasks, such as personal care and meals, within the care recipient’s familiar environment. Residential respite care, on the other hand, involves the temporary relocation of the care recipient to a specialised facility, like a nursing home, where they receive comprehensive care and supervision from the facility’s staff. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs and preferences of the caregiver and the senior receiving the care.
- How to get respite care for a parent
To organise respite care for an elderly parent, start by evaluating the specific type and length of care required. Seek guidance from your parent’s healthcare provider for tailored recommendations around specific or complex care requirements, then just get in touch with us or your local office to discuss your needs. Consider a trial period to ensure compatibility and maintain ongoing communication during the care period to ensure your parent’s well-being while you take a caregiving break.
- How to get respite care for a dementia patient
To organise respite care for a patient with dementia or Alzheimer’s, ensure you are dealing with a provider like Home Instead, who can offer specialist support with experienced carers who know how to support these conditions. Discuss the specific needs of the dementia patient, such as any medical requirements, daily routines, and preferences. It’s essential to communicate openly and provide relevant information to ensure a smooth transition and quality care for the individual with dementia while the primary caregiver takes a break.
- How to get emergency respite care
To arrange emergency respite care with Home Instead, please get in touch with us on 03300 583450 or via our contact form. If you are a long term caregiver for an elderly loved one, it is a good idea to have a list of care providers and funding options researched and available early on so it is “ready to go” if an emergency arises, when time is of the essence.
- How to get funding for respite care
To secure funding for respite care, you can explore various avenues. Start by researching government programs like the Carer’s Allowance, which provides financial support to those caring for someone in need. Additionally, local authorities often offer grants or support through social services departments. Charitable organisations like Carers UK and The Carers Trust may provide financial assistance or guidance. You can also consider seeking private funding through personal savings, local support groups, or seeking assistance from family and friends. Tailor your approach based on your specific circumstances and the resources available in your region.
- What are examples of respite care?
Examples of respite care include in-home respite, such as the type we provide, where a trained Care Professional comes to the individual’s home to provide care while the primary caregiver takes a break. Another type is adult day care centres, offering structured programs and supervision for seniors or adults with disabilities during the day, giving caregivers time for work or personal activities. Finally, residential respite care involves temporary stays in facilities such as nursing homes or assisted living communities, allowing caregivers to take extended breaks.
- What does home respite care do?
Home respite care provides primary caregivers of elderly individuals receiving care the opportunity to take a temporary break while ensuring their loved ones still receive proper care. A trained Care Professional visits the person’s home to provide assistance, companionship, and support. During this time, caregivers can recharge, attend to personal matters, or simply take a moment to rest. Home respite care can include various activities such as medication management, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and engaging the care recipient in recreational or therapeutic activities. This service not only offers physical assistance but also emotional relief, knowing that their loved ones are in capable hands.
- What are the disadvantages of respite care?
Respite care, while beneficial, can have some drawbacks. Disruption to routines can unsettle care recipients, especially those with cognitive issues such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. Finding reliable providers can be challenging, and costs can be high depending on the needs of the individual. Coordinating care logistics is time-consuming, and caregivers might feel guilty or anxious about handing over responsibilities. Caregivers should carefully consider these disadvantages when planning respite care.
- How does respite care support family members?
Respite care serves as a crucial support system for family members caring for elderly loved ones. By providing temporary relief, it allows caregivers to take a break from their demanding responsibilities, reducing the risk of burnout and exhaustion. This time away can rejuvenate caregivers physically and emotionally, helping them maintain their own well-being. It also offers an opportunity for caregivers to attend to personal matters, socialise, or simply rest, which can contribute to improved mental health; caregivers who are less stressed and more rested are better equipped to offer effective care when they return, which actually improves the quality of care offered to the loved one overall.
- How does respite care provide quality care?
Respite care contributes to providing quality care by ensuring that primary caregivers are in the best possible condition to deliver support. When caregivers are well-rested and less stressed due to the temporary relief provided by respite care, they can offer more focused attention and patience to their loved ones. This directly impacts the care recipient’s experience, as they benefit from a caregiver who is emotionally and physically available. Even better, our Care Professionals bring specialised training and expertise, enhancing the care provided during their temporary assistance. A multidimensional approach improves the overall quality of care received, enriching the care recipient’s daily life, and fostering a more positive caregiving environment for everyone involved.
Reach out and talk to the Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich team today
Enable your loved ones to continue to live their life with the support of the Wandsworth, Lambeth & Dulwich team. If you would like more information about our high quality Respite Care service, please call us on 020 8871 0006, or fill out the form below.

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