Respite care for children or young people with disabilities
Respite care for children or young people with disabilities includes a range of short term services. The aim is to provide a break which is a positive experience for the child or young person with care needs. Giving them opportunities to develop autonomy and independence.
Respite care also gives family carers a rest from their caring duties. It is important that these short breaks have a positive result for both those with care needs and their carers.
Respite care services can be offered in a variety of ways and different settings, including:
- care at home
- day care
- facilitated access to clubs or activity groups
- support with social activities or outings
- respite units
- family placement schemes
- Self-directed support (SDS)
How to apply
You can make a referral to the Duty Worker at your local Children and Families team.
A child or young person's assessment is done before you can access short break respite care or support services. The assessment lets us understand the needs of the child or young person. It has been developed in line with Getting It Right for Every Child. The needs and views of the child or young person are considered, as well as those of the family.
If your child requires support to meet their identified needs and achieve their desired outcomes the child's plan will be developed. Outcomes refer to the impact the support has on a child or young person's quality of life. The child's plan may trigger the need for a support plan through Self-directed support.
A Social Worker or Local Area Coordinator work with you to consider options for support. They'll review any support plan that may be put in place.
For more information about short break respite care services please contact your local Children and Families team.