Short-term or temporary stays

There are many circumstances in which you might have a temporary stay in a care home.

For example:

• To recover from an illness
• Following a stay in hospital
• As a break for you and/or your carer
• For day care
• For assessment - to see if you can manage with care at a home or need care in a residential setting. This is called a section 47 assessment and it is made by your local council along with your GP or the health authority.
• As a trial stay - to see if a care home suits you before committing to a longer-term arrangement; something that may be possible according to Department of Health guidelines.
• While waiting for a place in your preferred care home - if there is a waiting list.

Financial matters

Please be aware, that if you are receiving any benefits they may be affected by a temporary or trial stay in a care home.

Click here for more information financial matters and other aspects of choosing a care home.