Understanding and accessing respite care

If you’re a carer, remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one. 

Supporting an autistic individual can be highly rewarding, but it comes with unique challenges and stresses. It's essential to prioritise your health and wellbeing by taking regular breaks from your caring duties. Accessing respite care allows parents and carers to recharge, ensuring they can provide consistent, high-quality care over the long term. By understanding the options available and accessing the proper support, carers can find the balance they need to sustain their caring role.

What is respite?

Respite provides temporary relief for those caring for family members or friends. This service allows carers to take a much-needed break, knowing their loved one is well cared for.

Respite can come in a few forms:

• In-home respite: A worker or volunteer comes to your home to care for your loved one.
• Centre-based respite: Your loved one attends a community centre where they can participate in activities.
• Residential respite: Temporary care provided in a residential care facility.

Taking a break

Regular breaks can help maintain your physical and mental health, giving you the strength to continue in your caring role. Many carers find it challenging to take a break due to guilt or difficulty finding a suitable replacement. However, respite services are designed to step in and provide the care your loved one needs, allowing you the freedom to rest, attend appointments, or engage in personal activities.

How you choose to take a break will depend on your unique situation and the needs of the person you care for. Here are some ideas:

• Outings with support workers: A paid support worker takes your loved one to an activity or event they enjoy, giving you time to yourself.
• Family assistance: A family member supervises your loved one while you take time out for yourself.
• Overnight care: Your loved one stays overnight in a care facility or supported accommodation.
• Community centre activities: Your loved one spends a few hours at a community centre, engaging in leisure or learning activities.
• Shared activities: With the support of a worker or volunteer, you participate in enjoyable activities with your loved one and other family members.

Finding respite services

Respite services can range in cost, with some being free and others requiring partial or full payment. Many services are government-funded, and you might need to pay a small fee or contribution. If formal respite services are unavailable, consider asking family members, friends, or neighbours to help temporarily.

Emergency respite

In an emergency, there are several options available:

• Service providers: If your loved one is already receiving disability services, contact their service provider for emergency care options.
• Carer Gateway: Available 24/7, this service can help arrange emergency respite care if you suddenly cannot provide care due to illness or injury.
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS): Your loved one may be eligible for short-term accommodation, including respite care. 

Planned respite

For non-emergency situations, the Carer Gateway can also assist with arranging planned respite services. This can include activities for you and the person you care for, allowing both of you to benefit from a break.

Challenges in accessing respite services

Despite the availability of respite services across Australia, some carers may find it difficult to access the support they need. If you face difficulties, it’s important to know that you have the right to appeal decisions or make a complaint. Various organisations nationwide provide guidance and support in these situations to help you find the necessary resources. Carer Gateway and local carers' associations are available to offer assistance and ensure you receive the respite services you require.

When you do arrange for respite, it’s essential to make the most of your time. See our page on mental health and wellbeing for a detailed guide.

Support networks and resources

Making use of available resources can make a significant difference in your ability to manage your caring responsibilities. Several organisations provide valuable support and information:

• Local Carer Associations: Various regional and local organisations offer a wide range of services and support for carers, including advice on respite care.
• Carer Gateway: Provides information, support, and respite services to carers across Australia.
• NDIS: Offers support services for people with disabilities, which can include respite options for their carers.

Remember, by understanding the options available and accessing the right support, carers can find the balance they need to sustain their caring role effectively.

If you’re a carer, remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support and explore the respite options available to you.