Respite Services
Planned short breaks and support
Prosper Fingal respite services provide planned short breaks for adults with an intellectual disability. Respite can support the person and give family members or carers time away from their caring role.
What respite means
A break that is planned around the person
Respite is a short period of support away from the person’s usual home. It is planned in advance and based on assessed needs, available resources and an agreed support plan.
Respite should be a positive experience for the person, not only a break for carers.
In simple words
You stay somewhere else for a short time and receive the support you need.
You may enjoy activities, meet people and have a change of routine. Your family or carers also get a break.
During a respite stay
Support may include
A safe place to stay
Accommodation and support suited to the agreed respite arrangement.
Familiar routines
Important routines, communication needs, health information and preferences are considered.
Choice of activities
Opportunities to relax, enjoy interests and take part in suitable activities.
Relationships and wellbeing
Support to feel comfortable, connected and listened to during the stay.
Preparing well
Good information helps make a stay safer and more comfortable
- How the person communicates and makes choices.
- Health, medication and personal support needs.
- Routines, food, sensory needs and things that help the person feel calm.
- Interests, likes, dislikes and important relationships.
- What to do if the person is worried or needs extra support.
Before a first stay
The team may need time to understand the person’s needs and decide whether the service can provide safe and appropriate support.
Ask what visits, meetings or information are needed before respite begins.
Accessing respite
Respite depends on assessment and availability
Access is not automatic. It depends on eligibility, assessed need, the service’s ability to support the person safely, HSE approval, funding and available respite places.
Questions
Respite service questions
How long is a respite stay?
Arrangements can vary. The length and frequency depend on assessed need, the agreed plan and available resources. The team can explain the current options.
Can I visit before I stay?
Ask the team about introductions or visits. A planned introduction can help the person understand the setting and help staff learn what support works best.
What should I bring?
The service will explain what is needed. This may include personal items, clothing, communication supports, medication and up-to-date health or support information.
What if a respite place is not available?
The Admissions Co-ordinator can explain the current position and any next steps. Availability can change and cannot be guaranteed.
Next step
Ask about respite services
Contact Admissions for information about assessment, eligibility and current availability.
Need support to contact us?
A family member, advocate, professional or trusted person can contact us with you.