Respite

We offer short breaks whereby our dedicated care team will look after children and young people at the hospice while their families take a break and recharge their batteries, whether for a few hours or a few days.

Some families want the opportunity to stay with us, even for a short period such as when settling their child for a short stay. They can stay in one of our two self-contained family flats at the hospice, just upstairs from the residential unit where their child will be staying.

Family Accommodation

When your child is staying at Richard House, you may wish to stay in the same room as them, which can be arranged. You may also choose to book some time to stay in one of our two self-contained family flats at the hospice.

Each flat has a double bedroom, a sofabed in the lounge, and a fully-fitted kitchen. A cot and pay phone are also available in each flat. Mobile phones may be used within the hospice. Please consider carefully your choice of ring tones and volumes, as they may upset sensitive children.

Your flat will be prepared by a member of our housekeeping team. A welcome pack containing basic essentials will be provided.

Food

You are very welcome to supply and cook your own foods in the flat kitchen. You may also bring in a takeaway or go out for a meal, if you prefer. There is a folder in the flats with details of local takeaways. Takeaways will need to be paid for by you.

You may enjoy a glass of wine etc in the privacy of your flat. Please, however, respect the other families staying and the different cultural beliefs they may have.

Siblings and Visitors

Richard House is pleased to welcome siblings to stay and join in activities. We do ask, however, that they give their brother or sister some quiet time at bedtime. During their stay, all siblings remain the responsibility of their parents. For children who are visiting, not resident, we ask that they visit only until 8pm. You may also have visitors but please be respectful of other families staying and we do request that all visitors have left the building by 11pm.

"Richard House is just the most amazing place and means a great deal to us. They are such very lovely people and great care providers. Alexis loves going there and we can get much needed rest" Mum, Kelly

Families who already use our services can enquire about residential care from our care team to find out how to access this service.