What is Respite?
Respite is defined as a temporary relief or break away from a stressful situation Respite is an important family preservation and family support services. It provides short term relief to a child's primary caregivers. There caregivers can become overwhelmed and exhausted as a result of the continuous time, effort and energy it requires to provide for a child with special mental health care needs.
Benefits of Respite Care
- Respite provides a break for the child and their family
- Respite keeps the child in the home while reducing the risk of out of home placement
- respite provides structure to the child and creates increased family stability
When is Respite Necessary?
- When a family needs an occasional break from the 24/7 day a week responsibilities of care giving
- When the demands of caring for a child or outh with special mental health needs are too great or complex for a regulay babysitter
- When a famiy needs the opportunity to get refreshed so they are better able to cope with comples responsibilities
What Does A Respite Day Look Like?
- It is not necessary to plan "special" outing or activities
- Include the child in your family routine
- Give medications as prescribed
- Complete progress notes for each time the child is in your care
What Are The Requirements To Become A Respite Provider?
- Must be 21 years old
- Willing to provide the necessary home environment
- Complete required training
- Mandt - offered at HMHC
- First Aid and CPR
- Online Medication Course
- PS MAPP - offered at HMHC
- Pass a home licensing inspection through DCF
Is There Reimbursement For Providing Respite Care?
- Respite providers are compensated $65/day
- The satisfaction of knowing you have made a difference in the life of a chld and their family
If you are interested in learning more about providing Respite Care, please contact Meghann Sterling at 620-663-7595.