Respite
What is Respite?
Respite or respite care is when someone else takes care of the person you care for, so that you can have a break. A break can give you time to do everyday activities or just to relax, deal with stress and look after yourself.
Who can Access Respite?
Clients who have Short Term Accommodation in their NDIS package can claim accommodation and care. You can ask for this item to be included in your plan if you don’t have it. There is no NDIS item listed as ‘respite’, which can cause confusion. Don’t worry, respite is still available but it is described in new ways, such as:
- Short term accommodation and assistance
- Assistance in living arrangements (host family/alternative family) solution
- Assistance with self-care overnight (different levels)
You can talk to your support Coordinator for more information on Short Term Accommodation (STA), Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) and respite options.
STA – Short Term Accommodation
Short Term Accommodation is a form of respite or support to help participants stay somewhere that isn’t their own home for a short period of time.
STA funding, accessed from the core budget, covers a participant’s needs during their stay including accommodation, personal care supports, food and agreed activities. Where informal supports are unavailable, STAs are accessed by participants so their carers can have a break, explore new living arrangements such as supported independent living or alternative living while modifications are being made to your home.
MTA – Medium Term Accommodation
Medium Term Accommodation is specific funding to support people who need somewhere to live while waiting for another permanent accommodation.
The funding pays only for the accommodation for up to 3 months, and is typically available to people who have been approved for a new Supported Independent Living (SIL) or Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), but can’t move in straight away or are awaiting specific equipment to make their own home safer.
Want to Learn More?
To learn more about respite services or make an enquiry on behalf of yourself or someone you care for, you can get in touch with us and one of our friendly staff will be happy to assist.
We’re Here To Help.
