The home-based respite care service provides short-term temporary care so that you can have a break from caring, for example to visit the doctor, do a training course or catch up with friends.
How home-based respite care can help you
We will send someone to look after the person you care for in their own home. The type of care will depend on the person's circumstances. It might involve just staying at home with them while you are out, or they may need personal care or help with medication.
We normally provide home-based respite care for three hours per week. You can choose when the care takes place – it can be at a fixed time every week or just when you need it. You can also save up your hours and have a break for a whole day or overnight.
Who is eligible
To qualify for the service you must:
- provide regular and substantial care to an adult who is receiving, or is eligible for, community care services; and
- need a service or break to support you in your caring role; and
- have a ‘substantial' or ‘critical' need for support – this means that there is a high risk your caring role will break down if you don't get help.
How much will it cost
This is a chargeable service. It's aimed at giving you a break as a carer, but it would be treated as a service for the cared-for person, who could use their personal budget to pay for it. The financial assessment of the person being cared for will determine whether they need to pay towards the cost of the service.
How to apply
To apply for home-based respite care you will need to have a carers assessment.
Other types of respite care
Other types of respite care are available, such as day care and residential care that can allow carers to have a break. Again, these are treated as a service for the cared-for person, who could use their personal budget to pay for it. The financial assessment of the person being cared for will determine whether they need to pay towards the cost of the service.
Enquiries
To find out more about home-based respite care, or to ask for a carers assessment, get in touch with us:
East Sussex County Council