You may see on the portal we offer ‘Waking Night’ packages, we want to make sure you are aware of the expectations that are associated with working this type of package.
Some really important aspects to note before you apply or accept to provide waking night support to a care recipient:
You stay awake and alert all night
You’re expected to remain awake throughout the night, not just be “on call.” You must be alert and listen to any movement so that you can attend to the care recipient effectively.
Constant availability
The reasons that a care recipient might require waking night support can be very different, but if after assessment it has been decided that this type of support is what they need, that implies there is a requirement for you to be fully alert and available to attend to the care recipient.
You may need to provide personal care, medication support, repositioning, companionship, reassurance or monitoring as needed.
Scheduled tasks
Depending on the care recipient, you might be doing things like checking in regularly, assisting with toileting, playing games, watching TV or having meaningful conversations.
Rest during the day
If you’re doing waking nights as a live-in carer, you’re generally expected to rest or sleep during the day (when another carer covers or the care recipient doesn’t need much support).
Example Waking Night Routine (10:00 pm – 7:00 am)
9:50 pm – Handover
Receive an update from the day carer (medications given, mood, mobility, toileting needs, any concerns).
Check the care plan and prepare anything you’ll need overnight (meds, repositioning aids, drinks, continence products).
10:00 pm – Settling in
Help the care recipient to get comfortable in bed (toileting, hygiene, pain relief if prescribed, positioning pillows).
Ensure call bells, alarms, or monitoring equipment are working.
If they do not wish to be in bed, check what they wish to do and prepare everything you need
11:00 pm – 6:00 am – Monitoring & Support
Stay awake and alert, nearby or in the care recipient’s room if constant supervision is required.
It is recommended to visually check on the care recipient every hour throughout the night
Respond if the care recipient wakes (toileting, reassurance, pain management, repositioning).
Carry out planned turning/repositioning to prevent pressure sores.
Provide emotional support or companionship if the care recipient is restless.
Monitor safety if the care recipient has risks (wandering, seizures, confusion, breathing difficulties).
Some care recipients may ask for drinks or snacks overnight, these must be offered according to the care plan
Document any care given to use for handover in the morning, before submitting them on the portal.
Light household tasks if agreed (laundry, tidying care area), but only if the care recipient is settled.
6:00 am – 7:00 am – Morning Prep & Handover
Support the care recipient to get up and ready for the day (if they wish to).
Prepare and offer breakfast of their choice and a drink
Prepare and offer the morning medication, if any
Handover with sufficient details to be provided for the day carer, if applicable.
Waking Nights are a vital part of ensuring safety, comfort, and peace of mind for those we care for. By remaining awake, attentive, and compassionate throughout the night, you help provide continuity of care and reassurance for both the care recipient and their loved ones. Thank you for your commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care during these important hours.