Children and Young Persons Respite
respite care
Respite care is a valuable resource designed to aid primary caregivers in navigating the many demands and difficulties of their responsibilities, all while offering children access to a broader support system.Â
This specialized form of care can be scheduled in advance and provided on a regular basis for agreed-upon durations (such as two nights every fortnight) or may be necessitated in urgent or emergency situations.
WHAT IS RESPITE?
It’s important to differentiate respite care from casual arrangements, like having a child spend a night at a friend’s house or occasionally employing a babysitter.Â
Respite care involves entrusting the child to another trained and dedicated caregiver, distinct from their primary caretaker, ensuring comprehensive support and care while giving the primary caregiver necessary time for rest or other commitments.Â
This professional service is structured to meet the specific needs of both the caregiver and the child, offering a more substantial and sustained level of support compared to routine social engagements or occasional supervision.
HOW RESPITE HELPS
By engaging in respite care, primary caregivers can take a much-needed break, secure in the knowledge that their child is in capable hands.Â
Meanwhile, children can benefit from a nurturing environment with an alternative caregiver, providing a new and supportive experience beyond their regular familial or social interactions.
This form of care is an invaluable support system, allowing caregivers to recharge and attend to personal or other family needs, ensuring they can continue their essential role with renewed energy and focus
RESPITE BENEFITS
Respite care placements can:
- provide you with a break from childcare responsibilities
- provide children with an opportunity to experience different care environments
- support placements, especially where children have special and high needs
- give siblings who are placed separately an opportunity to have time together.
You must arrange respite care in collaboration with your Support Coordinator, DCP case worker, the child or young person in your care and your support worker.
LINKS & RESOURCES
To view the Charter of Rights, click here.
Visit the Office of the Guardian for Children and Young People here.
