
Short Breaks, which you might know as ‘respite’, is a type of flexible support.
With Grace Eyre Short Breaks, people stay with a trained Shared Lives carer for just a short period of time, giving both themselves and their usual carer a break.
The service is beneficial for those with a learning disability, mental health issues, older adults, and young people transitioning to more independent living.
Key features of Grace Eyre Short Breaks

Man assisting woman with Down Syndrome frying vegetables in kitchen
Here are some key features of the short breaks service:
- Short-term Stays: People can stay with a Shared Lives carer for a short period, offering a change of surroundings and routine, while still receiving professional care.
- Respite for carers: Regular carers get a break from their responsibilities, which can help them to continue providing high-quality care.
- Personalised support: The service is tailored to meet the unique needs of each person, ensuring they receive the appropriate level of support.
Types of activities
During a Short Breaks stay with a Shared Lives carer, people can engage in a variety of activities tailored to their interests and needs.
Here are some examples:
- Day trips – visits to local attractions, parks, or museums
- Hobbies – engaging in activities like gardening, cooking, or arts and crafts
- Social activities – participating in community events, attending social clubs, or visiting friends and family
- Skill development – learning new skills such as cooking, managing money, or using public transport
- Recreational activities – enjoying sports, swimming, or going to the cinema
- Relaxation – spending time in a comfortable home environment, reading, or watching TV
These activities are designed to be fun and beneficial, helping people to feel included and supported while giving their regular carers a break.
Find out more
To find out more, please get in touch with our Shared Lives Team at sharedlives@grace-eyre.org.