Respite Carer Jobs in Durham

Support families across Durham with short-term and weekend respite cover — from a few hours to a few days. These roles suit experienced, compassionate carers who want control over when and where they work, and who value variety and meaningful one-to-one time. Right now, 9 families are currently looking for care in the wider area.

As a PrimeCarers respite carer in Durham you'll meet families who need break cover for a wide range of situations: sitting with someone at home, helping with personal care, companionship, or staying overnight for a few nights of live-in support. Work can be local to towns across County Durham, and often includes requests around Spennymoor, Chester le Street, Houghton le Spring, Ferryhill, Greater Willington and Crook. You set your own availability and choose clients whose needs you’re happy to support.

You decide your fees and shifts — carers on PrimeCarers are self-employed and set their own rates, typically around £18.50–£20 per hour for many short-term roles. You can list hourly or live-in availability using £18.50–£20 per hour and £145–£160 per day ranges where relevant. PrimeCarers finds matching families, handles contracts, invoicing and payments, and provides insurance while you work, so you can focus on delivering great care.

This is right for you if you have at least one year of professional care experience and can provide verifiable references. You must have the right to work in the UK and an Enhanced DBS check; PrimeCarers can help arrange a DBS if needed. We ask for clear references and confirmation of experience to protect families and carers alike.

Becoming part of PrimeCarers is straightforward. Applying takes minutes, and profiles typically go live within days of verification. You stay fully in charge of which clients you accept, the hours you’ll take and the area you cover. If you currently work for an agency and want more flexibility or clearer control over your time and rates, this platform is built to make that transition manageable while keeping professional standards high.

If you care about doing quality respite work and want to keep your independence as a self-employed carer, PrimeCarers can help you find ongoing short-term and weekend bookings across Durham and County Durham. Start your application today and be ready to choose the shifts that fit your life.