There are different sorts of respite care, which involve a short stay in a hospital, a hospice or a residential care or nursing home. A respite stay in an NHS hospital or a hospice run by a charity is normally free. For residential or nursing home stays arranged through the local authority there will usually be a flat rate fee per night unless it is over eight weeks, when there will normally be a means test. Carers National Association has a booklet on Residential and Nursing Home Care. It may be possible for the person you care for to stay with another family.
Most schemes are for children but there are a few for adults.
The local social services department should know. Holidays You may plan a holiday together - or separately. There is even some financial help available, although eligibility criteria can be strict. There are home exchange schemes and some holiday companies which specialise in singles or in special needs. These are listed in the Carers National Association leaflet 'Taking a Break'.