When a relative needs support overnight, families are often unsure whether they need a sleeping-night or waking-night carer. The two arrangements are different, and choosing the right one depends on how much help the person is likely to need during the night.
What is a sleeping night?
With a sleeping-night arrangement, the carer is able to sleep during the night but remains available to provide help if needed.
This may suit someone who is generally settled overnight but could occasionally need support, reassurance, help getting to the toilet or assistance if they wake unexpectedly.
A sleeping night is usually more suitable where interruptions are expected to be limited rather than frequent throughout the night.
What is a waking night?
With a waking-night arrangement, the carer remains awake and available throughout the night to provide support.
This may be more appropriate when someone needs regular assistance, observation, reassurance, repositioning, continence support or other ongoing help during the night.
How do families decide which one is suitable?
Think about what normally happens overnight and how often help is required. Useful questions include:
- How often does the person usually wake?
- Do they need help using the toilet or moving safely?
- Is there a risk of falls, confusion or wandering?
- Do they need regular reassurance during the night?
- Would it be realistic for a carer to sleep for most of the night?
If the person’s needs change, the overnight arrangement may also need to be reviewed.
How much does overnight support cost?
The exact rate depends on the individual carer, location, hours and level of support required. As a guide, independent sleeping-night support may start from around £120 per night, while waking-night support may start from around £150 per night.
The ongoing rate is agreed directly between the family and the independent carer.
How Eden Homecare 247 can help
Eden Homecare 247 Ltd provides an introductory matching service for families looking for vetted self-employed and independent carers, including visiting support, companionship, overnight support and live-in arrangements.
Our family introductory matching service is available across the UK, subject to suitable carer availability. Eden introduces the family and carer; the family chooses who they wish to work with and agrees the ongoing arrangement directly with the carer.
Eden charges a one-off introduction fee rather than an ongoing weekly agency fee.
Need help finding overnight support?
To discuss the type of support your family is looking for, call 020 3633 8925 or visit edenhomecare247.co.uk.
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