carehome.co.uk 122 reviews

Respite
Care

A short break or emergency cover to rest and recharge.

Included in Our Respite Care

Expert Team

24-hour care from nurses, carers, and support staff led by an experienced clinical manager.

Personalised Care

Bespoke care plans tailored to individual needs and preferences for the duration of your stay.

Engaging Activities

Varied activities, therapies, events and regular minibus outings to stay active and engaged.

Beautiful Facilities

En-suite bedrooms with full use of the bistro, cinema, library, gym, salon and gardens.

Nutritious Meals

Delicious, homemade meals and snacks for all dietary requirements, with lighter Nighttime Yummy menu.

Our Approach To Care

Respite care is a short-term stay in a care home, designed to support the caregiver, and the person you’re caring for. Our respite care services allow you to take a well-deserved break, confident that your loved one is in safe hands.

Our services include residential, nursing and dementia care tailored to each resident’s unique needs. Our expert team is available 24/7 to provide medical, therapeutic and personal care including help with washing, dressing and taking medication.

Our home in Hemel Hempstead is dementia-friendly, designed with comfort and safety in mind. It features luxurious en-suite bedrooms, a bustling bistro, cinema, library, gym, salon and gardens to stimulate both body and mind.

What Our Families Say

I felt immediately at home on arriving at Water Mill House where I received wonderful care. The staff are all amazing, friendly, compassionate and caring. I was so impressed with all the activities that are organised. My congratulations to all management and staff on the way the home which run and grateful thanks to all.

Jill

Resident

Our mum came to Water Mill House for respite care and I cannot believe the change in her health and wellbeing as we prepare to go home. The amazing care she has received has helped her eat well, make friends and get stronger. We visit anytime and are always welcomed… Nothing is too much trouble for the wonderful staff.

Amanda M

Resident’s daughter

Dad went into Water Mill House Care Home after a hospital stay…Thanks to the support and care of the nursing and care staff, Dad was able to build up his strength and return home.

Louise B

Resident’s daughter

I was made very welcome by all the staff who were friendly and very helpful. The rooms are spacious, clean and comfortable with excellent bathroom facilities… I highly recommend.

Michael

Respite resident

My mother described the care as excellent and felt that the staff did their absolute best at all times. She was made to feel very welcome and staff went out of their way to provide everything she needed during her respite stay.

Lynn

Resident’s daughter

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Life at Water Mill House

Mouth-watering meals, wonderful activities, entertainment and full use of the beautiful facilities are inclusive. Each day brings opportunities to socialise, make new friends or to simply relax and recharge.

Residents help to shape the activities schedule to meet their needs and interests, featuring live music, art and pet therapy, gentle exercise, pampering, school visits and topical quizzes. Everyone is welcome at our popular Knit and Natter, Saturday ramble and gardening clubs, and minibus outings to local places of interest. Our Wishing Well initiative runs throughout the year creating personalised experiences for residents to treasure.

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The Wishing Well Experiences to Treasure

Linda

Let’s Go Fly a Kite

Linda fondly remembered flying kites with her father as a little girl. Armed with supplies, we took to the skies at Dunstable Down. Linda said: “Although it was almost 70 years since I’d done it, the memories came flooding back and it was so much fun!”

Romayne

Keeping En Pointe!

Professional dancer Romayne yearned to watch a ballet again. So, we arranged a special visit to the Bovingdon Dance Academy to watch rehearsals. Romayne said: “It means the world to me that I can continue my love for dance at Water Mill House.”

David

Bumper Harvest

David worked at Spitalfields and longed to rekindle his love of gardening. So, we ensured he had everything he needed to produce a bumper summer crop. David said: “I’m delighted with what I’ve been able to grow at Water Mill House!”

Your Comfort is our Priority

We prioritise making your loved one’s stay as comfortable and positive as possible. Upon arrival, they will be assigned a key team member who ensures they feel right at home throughout their stay. Through introductions to companionable residents during mealtimes and activities, meaningful connections quickly develop. We are proud to have a community where every resident feels valued and supported, no matter how long they stay with us.

How Does Respite Care Work?

There are several reasons you may consider respite care at Water Mill House:

You need a break: Whether it’s a holiday or some time to handle personal matters or recover from an illness yourself, respite care can ensure your loved one is well cared for while you focus on your own wellbeing.
Convalescence recovery: If you or your loved one has recently experienced surgery or illness, and need short-term convalescent care, our team can assist in bridging the gap.
Trial stays for long-term care: If you’re considering moving your loved one into a care home, but would like to try it first, a respite stay allows them to experience our care and facilities before making a long-term decision.

Life can be unpredictable, and emergencies happen. Subject to availability, Water Mill House can provide emergency respite care when you need it most. Whether due to unforeseen health issues, or a sudden change in circumstance, we’re here to help.

At Water Mill House, we believe that respite care is not just about providing expert care when you need it most — it’s about creating a welcoming environment where your loved one can thrive. Whether it’s a one-off break or a regular arrangement, we’re here to support both you and your loved one every step of the way.