New facility provides hope for families with respite care

A new overnight respite service is set to open in Ipswich, providing essential support for families and carers. Wots Up, a community interest company already offering daytime care for adults with learning disabilities and autism in nearby Whitton, is expanding its services after receiving planning permission to convert a house in the Chantry area.

The new facility will accommodate up to three adults at a time. Sharn Smith, who will serve as the registered manager, emphasized that the service aims to be more than just a break for parents. "We want people to enjoy a homely environment with themed rooms and engaging activities, almost like a mini-holiday," she said.

The opening comes as another respite facility in Ipswich, Burgess House, operated by the non-profit Leading Lives, is scheduled to close at the end of December.

Parents of adults with disabilities have welcomed the new service. Gill Lewis, whose 39-year-old daughter Hannah has Angelman syndrome, explained the strain of constant care. "We are on alert 24/7 to keep her safe, and its exhausting. Without respite, we simply cannot function," she said. Hannah attends Wots Up during the day and requires one-to-one support at home.

Loraine Cuzner, whose 22-year-old son Joe has autism and ADHD, expressed excitement about the overnight care. "Other respite services were fully booked, so this is a real relief. Joe will feel comfortable as he already knows the carers and the day centre environment. After 22 years of constant care, a break is needed," she said.

Deidre Charleston and her husband care for their 21-year-old daughter Amy, who has Downs syndrome. They highlighted that Amy is happy at Wots Up and the chance for respite for the first time will be "fantastic."

The new home in Chantry aims to create a welcoming, holiday-like atmosphere for those staying. Respite care can be funded in multiple ways, primarily through Suffolk County Council, the NHS, or private arrangements.

Founded in 2014 by Mags Fortune, Wots Up currently supports around 30 adults. Planning permission for the Chantry house was granted earlier this month by Ipswich Borough Council.

Author: Sophia Brooks