It can be exhausting caring for someone with additional needs, and it is vital you get a break occasionally so you can continue to provide excellent care.  Whether it is for your own medical or other appointments, or just so the family can have some time NOT focussed on their special person, you are entitled to seek respite.  Try investigating some of the following options: 

Respite care is provided by councils through their Home and Community Care programs, and usually is provided for up to three hours a week.  This service is income based so charges may apply.  Go to your local council's website and search for 'respite'.  Click here to see a list of all Victorian Councils.

A list of all respite services has been compiled by CarersLink North for families in the Northern and Western Metropolitan Region.  The booklet can be obtained from CarerLinks North, DHS Disability Services or online at www.respitenorthandwest.org.au 

Interchange also provide a variety of respite options for families. Go to http://vic.interchange.org.au/

Respite Victoria http://www.respitevictoria.org.au/ with links to the various regions and  lots of information.

Last updated on May 24, 2010 by SysAdmin ASSN Vic