Breaks from caring (respite)
Being a carer can be a rewarding experience. It can also be emotional, time-consuming, and physically demanding. You may find that your caring responsibilities mean you are unable to participate in leisure activities, attend appointments or take a much needed break.
If you are a carer you may be entitled to respite services or a 'break from caring'.
Respite breaks are useful if you or the person you care for are finding it difficult to cope and would benefit from a bit of 'time out'.
What is respite?
The term "respite" or "breaks from caring" can cover any form of support that enables a carer to have time away from their caring responsibilities.
Breaks can take place in a number of ways and for differing lengths of time. They can be done jointly with the cared-for person, or without them, depending on people’s preferences.
Regardless of age, carers should be enabled to take their break in a way that fits the carer and their situation.
Breaks can be supported by:
- the individual spending time with another family member or friend
- creative ‘breaks from caring’ such as leisure or relaxation opportunities, equipment, help with domestic tasks that add to the impact of the caring role
- at the home of the cared for person by Community or Outreach services, care, or “sitter” services
- by the cared for person attending a day centre or a local interest or activity group
- flexibly by using a personal budget through Self Directed Support
- in the home of another person through the Share the Care or Shared Lives Schemes
- in a care home or other residential respite service
Carers have told us that these breaks from caring are essential in allowing them to continue to care for longer and in better health, and a successful short break can provide a meaningful experience for both the carer and the person they are looking after.
Help to arrange a break
Where support is required to enable a break, carers can request assistance via Carers of East Lothian, who can provide flexible small grants and support in thinking about what kind of break will meet the carers needs.
As the impact of caring increases support may be given through social work as part of a more formal support package (if the carer meets the local eligibility criteria - request an assessment from your social work department.
ELHSCP in collaboration with CoEL have produced Short Breaks Services Statements which provide information on the different breaks available in East Lothian.
Download PDF: Short Breaks Service - Children
