Step-Down, Transitional & Respite Care
Safe, specialist care when you need time to plan, recover, or take a break. We provide the clinical expertise and emotional support families need during difficult transitions.
After Hospital: What Happens Next?
Leaving hospital can feel overwhelming when someone has complex needs. Where do they go? Who will provide the right level of care? How do you make sure they're safe?
We provide a specialist, clinically supervised environment that bridges the gap between hospital and long-term care. This gives everyone time to breathe, plan properly, and make the right decisions without pressure.
Step-down care provides:
- Continued specialist clinical oversight and monitoring
- Time to assess ongoing needs and plan next steps
- A calmer, more homelike environment for recovery
- Support for families during a difficult transition
- Coordination with discharge teams and commissioners
Ready to talk to us?
Whether you need urgent step-down care or planned respite, we're here to help. Leave your details and we'll arrange a confidential call with a senior clinician.
To protect you, please don't type full medical history here. We'll discuss needs privately, one-to-one, with a senior clinician who understands step-down and respite care.
Clinical Detail
Specialist step-down, transitional and respite care with comprehensive clinical support and family-centered approach.
Conditions Supported
Neurological Conditions:
- Huntington's disease requiring specialist support
- Parkinson's disease with complex symptoms
- Motor neurone disease and progressive conditions
- Multiple sclerosis with varying care needs
Post-Hospital Care Needs:
- Recovery from acute medical episodes
- Medication stabilization and monitoring
- Assessment of ongoing care requirements
- Planned respite for family carers
Staffing Overview
Registered Nurses
24/7 qualified nursing with experience in transitional care and complex medical needs
Care Coordinators
Specialist coordinators managing transitions, discharge planning, and family liaison
Support Team
Trained healthcare assistants, therapy staff, and family support workers
Flexible Staffing: Staffing levels adjusted based on acuity and individual needs. Enhanced support during initial transition periods.
Therapy Offer
Assessment & Stabilization:
- Medical Assessment: Comprehensive review of conditions, medications, and care needs
- Mobility Assessment: Physiotherapy evaluation and mobility support planning
- Cognitive Assessment: Evaluation of cognitive function and support needs
Therapeutic Support:
- Occupational Therapy: Daily living skills, equipment assessment, home preparation
- Speech Therapy: Communication support and swallowing assessment
- Emotional Support: Counselling, adjustment support, family therapy
Facilities
Accommodation
- • Flexible room arrangements
- • Short and long-term options
- • Accessible facilities
- • Personal belongings space
Clinical Areas
- • Assessment rooms
- • Therapy spaces
- • Medication management
- • Monitoring equipment
Family Areas
- • Private meeting rooms
- • Overnight accommodation
- • Kitchen facilities
- • Comfortable visiting areas
Outdoor Spaces
- • Accessible gardens
- • Quiet outdoor seating
- • Walking areas
- • Fresh air spaces
Family Support
Transition Support:
- Pre-admission planning and preparation visits
- Regular updates during stay and progress reports
- Discharge planning and next steps coordination
Respite Support:
- Flexible stay durations to meet family needs
- Emotional support and counselling for carers
- Regular respite planning and booking support
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can you arrange step-down care after hospital discharge?
We can often arrange admissions within 24-48 hours if beds are available. Our team works closely with hospital discharge coordinators to facilitate smooth transitions and ensure all necessary care arrangements are in place.
What is the minimum and maximum stay duration?
Step-down stays typically range from 2-12 weeks, while respite care can be from a few days to several weeks. We're flexible and work with families to determine the most appropriate duration based on individual needs and circumstances.
How do you coordinate with the person's existing care team?
We maintain close communication with GPs, consultants, and community teams. We provide detailed handovers and progress reports, and can facilitate specialist appointments or reviews during the stay.
Can families visit during step-down or respite stays?
Absolutely. We encourage family involvement and have flexible visiting hours. For respite stays, we understand families may want some time away, but they're always welcome to visit or call for updates.
What happens if someone's condition changes during their stay?
Our nursing team monitors residents closely and can adapt care plans as needed. If significant changes occur, we'll involve families in discussions about ongoing care needs and may coordinate with specialists or hospitals.
How do you help plan for discharge or ongoing care?
We conduct comprehensive assessments during the stay and work with families, social services, and commissioners to plan appropriate next steps. This might include returning home with support, moving to long-term care, or arranging further rehabilitation.
Do you provide emergency respite placements?
Yes, we understand that carer emergencies can arise unexpectedly. We try to accommodate urgent respite requests when beds are available and can often arrange same-day admissions in crisis situations.
What support do you provide for families during respite periods?
We provide regular updates, are available for questions or concerns, and can arrange video calls if families want to see their loved one. We also offer emotional support and can connect families with counselling services if needed.
Last reviewed: December 2024
Ask About a Placement
Need step-down care after hospital or planning respite? Our team can assess needs and discuss how we can support you and your family.
Submit Referral Form