Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet has approved a new, co-produced model for respite care for adults with learning disabilities, following a successful eight-week consultation with adults with learning disabilities, their families, carers, and key partners.
The new model, known as My Stay, My Way, was shaped by the voices of people with lived experience of learning disabilities and their carers, and reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to delivering flexible, person-centred respite care that promotes independence, dignity, and wellbeing. This modernises the current offer, which is predominantly offered through bed-based care in traditional residential settings.
The consultation, which ran from July to August, received strong engagement from the community. A total of 39 people returned completed surveys with over 70% of respondents supporting each tier of the proposed model, which are:
- Community-based options that are flexible and adaptable to encourage independence and social inclusion.
- Specialist support for complex needs for individuals who require additional help in safe and supportive environments.
- Integrated health and social care for those with the most complex needs for better community living.
Additionally, a total of 49 people with lived experience participated in our in-person events. Feedback highlighted enthusiasm for the proposed changes while highlighting the importance of personalised, accessible respite in environments that reflect individual preferences.
Understandably, as respite services are highly valued by those who use them, some people will be anxious about change until they know exactly how it will affect them personally. The Council will continue to work closely with individuals and their families and carers, to make sure services are tailored to their needs and aspirations and all current respite users will be supported at individual reviews to ensure their needs continue to be met, and that existing services will remain in place until suitable alternatives are agreed.
With Cabinet approval, the Council will now begin a phased implementation of the new model.
Councillor Gareth Caple, Cabinet Member for Social Care with Primary Responsibility for Adult Social Care, said: “We are grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation and for sharing their experiences of using respite services.
“This new model is about offering greater choice, flexibility, and control for people with learning disabilities and their families. By moving away from a one-size-fits all model, we can ensure that people receive respite care that is tailored to their diverse needs and aspirations by offering alternative services that provide sustainable, holistic, and community-based options.
“By working closely with individuals and their families, we can ensure respite care continues to meet people’s needs both now and in the future.”
The new model builds on the success of the Council’s Learning Disability Transformation Programme, including My Day, My Way and My Home, My Way, and demonstrates the Council’s commitment to co-production, transformation, and continuous improvement.
Posted on 27/10/2025