Respite care

St Helena is pleased to be able to offer an optional, paid-for service for patients who need a period of respite from their normal situation. This may be because of noisy building work at home, to enable family or carers to have a holiday or maybe just for a change of scenery. You will be cared for in a single room with en-suite facilities in our outstanding hospice in Highwoods, Colchester.

During a respite stay you can enjoy all of the hospices amenities - relax in the lounge, part of the original Myland Hall farmhouse, find peace in the Oasis Room, take a long soak in our jacuzzi bath and chat over a coffee in the hospice dining room. You'll also be able to spend time in our beautiful gardens which are maintained all year round by our expert volunteer gardeners. The garden is fully accessible on foot, in a wheelchair and even in your bed. Visitors are welcome at any time.

What is included in a respite stay at St Helena Hospice?

All meals, drinks (including your favourite tipple!) and snacks are provided and freshly prepared on-site by our catering team. Meals can be chosen from a range of options including themed dishes for holidays and special occasions and we'll always do our best to accommodate when you fancy something 'off-menu'.

We provide a safe space for patients where care is available round-the-clock, so you will receive all your normal nursing care requirements and symptom control. You'll have access to our full range of services including social and emotional support, spirituality care, complementary therapy and rehab. A bespoke plan can be discussed prior to admission so we can ensure these services are available during your stay.

What is not included?

Our respite care is not suitable if your condition is deteriorating and frequent specialist interventions are needed. In this case a referral to our regular hospice service is more appropriate.

Interested?

Anyone over the age of 16 with frailty or life-limiting illness can visit St Helena for a respite stay. You do not have to be currently receiving care from St Helena. Usually admissions will be for blocks of seven days at a time, but we will always try to accommodate requests. To book a stay please contact the Hospice Matron by email to respite@sthelena.org.uk or contact our Hospice reception by calling 01206 845 566.

Funding

This is a private paid-for service. In some circumstances payment may be funded by the NHS or local authority. The Hospice Matron will be able to discuss these options with you. 100% of the money paid for respite services goes back into the hospice funds which allows us to continue to provide free, core hospice services for all those who need it.