"...because Carers count..."

Short Term Breaks

A short term break was previously called “respite”. Many carers need to have  a short break from caring from time to time. A short term break may last just a few hours, or a day or a week or two. You may be entitled to such a service from Surrey County Council if you carry out “regular and substantial care” and the person that you care for appears to be in need of community care services There is now a requirement within legislation for the local authority to inform carers of their rights to an assessment of their own needs which is a way of possibly providing services and support. Some breaks can be arranged through voluntary organisations free of charge, and some carers may also arrange short term breaks privately where they can afford to do this. Social Services could help provide carers with information about this.

 There are many forms of short term break. You may have someone coming into your home from a Care Agency to care for the person while you are out or resting or catching up with a hobby. Alternatively the person you care for may go to a Day Centre or be taken our by someone other than you.

 If you are going away for longer you and the person you care for may wish to look at traditional settings, such as Nursing or Residential homes where the person you care for can stay until you return. It may be the case that they wish to stay in their own home with or without support while you are away. Other options include, going on an assisted holiday which involves being on holiday with the person you care for while someone provides the physical care during the duration of the holiday. There is now a real choice about arranging short term breaks which will give you more flexibility.