Getting a break from caring can have long term benefits for both carers and the people they care for.
A short break (sometimes called respite) is a form of support which enables you to have time away from your caring routines and responsibilities. It may be a one-off or regular occurrence.
We know having a short break can promote your health and well-being and sustain you in your caring role.
Having a break can also help the person you support and other family members affected by the caring situation. Short breaks can help to bring more of a balance to your life, alongside your caring role.
There is a wide variety of short breaks across Scotland.
The type of short break that is right for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. Examples include:
- Holiday or leisure breaks (with or without the person you care for)
- Sports or activity breaks (with or without the person you care for)
- Breaks at a day centre for the person you care for
- from a care at home service for the person you care for
- Short breaks in a care home
- Specialist play schemes or after school clubs for the child that you care for
- Befriending
- Funding to do something that is important to you that helps you have a break e.g. relaxation therapies or an evening class
For more ideas and examples of short breaks visit the Shared Care Scotland website or the Angus Carers website.
You can speak to your worker if you or the person you care for has one.
If not you can get in touch via First Contact on 01307 475242, email firstcontact@angus.gov.uk.
How do I know if I am eligible?
All local authorities have eligibility criteria and thresholds to access different supports. You will need to complete an adult carer support plan or young carer statement to help you plan what matters to you and find out what support is available to you.
To find out more about eligibility criteria and other frequently asked questions visit the Angus Carers website.
Our Short Break Services Statement Supporting Document gives more information on how we support carers through short breaks.
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