Carers can plan for social occasions or trips away thanks to the opening of a bespoke respite flat in Wallsend.
The spacious one-bedroom flat can be booked in advance from a weekend or longer stays, providing an alternative to respite in a care home.
Created in direct response to feedback from carers, the flat will address previous difficulties in booking respite care in advance while offering a balance between privacy and independence and access to care on site.
The newly refurbished apartment has equipment for sensory and mobility needs and includes a self-contained bedroom and an accessible bathroom.
Located within Crossgates Extra Care scheme, those staying in the flat will have the privacy of their own space while benefiting from the care and support on offer.
Cllr Janet Hunter, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at North Tyneside Council, said: “Carers in our borough told us that there was more we could do to support them to be able to access and book respite support in advance - this flat addresses that.
“We know a care home setting isn’t right for everyone, and Crossgates is a perfect location for those who need support but still want to maintain their privacy and continue to attend their usual activities.
“I’d encourage anyone who would consider using the flat to contact our teams to find out more.”
The flat is a joint project between North Tyneside Council, Age UK North Tyneside and EveryDay Care and Support. If successful, it’s hoped the scheme will increase to open additional flats in the future.
The charge is £107.50 per night, which is a lower cost that care home stays.
People who receive Adult Social Care services with respite in their care plan will be referred by an Adult Social Care worker, with a pre-stay assessment completed by EveryDay Care and Support. They will be charged up to the maximum financial contribution identified in their financial assessment.
People who pay for and arrange their own care can use the service via self-referral to Age UK North Tyneside, who will arrange the pre-stay assessment and take payment.
You can find out more about Crossgates Short Stays on the My Care North Tyneside website.