Respite care

Respite care provides an organised, temporary break both for carers and the person they care for. Letting someone else do the caring for a few hours or days has benefits for both of you. 

What is respite care? 

Respite care is designed to give carers a break for a limited period of time. Someone else provides care so the carer can go on holiday, attend to everyday activities, or just relax. Sometimes a carer might need emergency respite care if, for example, they get sick or need to go to hospital.  

Who is respite care for? 

Respite care is meant to be a positive experience, both for the carer and the person being cared for. Carers sometimes get physically and emotionally tired. It is important that they can have a break so they can be better carers. Respite care is also for people who are being cared for, such as children or adults with disability, mental illness, dementia, or older people who are frail. It can benefit them through meeting new people, doing new activities and having fun.