Respite and Carer Support
Caring can be hard work. If you are the full-time, unpaid carer for a disabled person, then Respite Services and Carer Support are available for you.
These are services funded by the Ministry of Health to give you a break, and ensure that the person you care for gets the care and support they need in the meantime.
Respite Services
Respite Services are community-based services that provide a positive, stimulating and worthwhile experience for the disabled person, while allowing you to take a short-term break.
Talk to your local Needs Assessment Service Coordination organisation (NASC) to find out more.
Carer Support
Carer Support provides reimbursement of some of the costs of using a support person to care and support the disabled person. This means you can take some time out for yourself.
The number of hours or days that Carer Support is funded for depends on needs of you and the person you care for.
To find out more about claiming Carer Support, download a copy of the pamphlet How to Claim Carer Support, or see a sample copy of the Carer Support Claim Form. Your local NASC can tell you more.
Resources
Respite Services factsheet
A Ministry of Health publication
Carer Support factsheet
A Ministry of Health publication
A Guide for Carers
A Ministry of Social Development publication
Page last updated: 15 February 2012
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