Respite Care.

Caring for a partner, child, relative, friend or neighbour, who could not manage on their own, possibly due to age, physical or mental illness, addiction or disability, is often a full-time job. As with any other job, the carer is likely to benefit from some time away from their caring responsibilities in order to return refreshed to ‘work’.

Many people with caring responsibilities do not consider themselves to be a carer. They are just looking after their spouse, parent or child and just getting on with the role as anyone else would in the same situation. Yet of the 6 million carers in this country over 59% suffer from deteriorating health because the type and intensity of care needed can compromise their own health and well-being.

The MSF will support applications to fund the provision of Respite Care so that the carer can take a well-earned rest confident that their loved one is being looked after in a safe and caring environment. This support has been available for over two years and can be provided either in an RMBI care home or at a private home near to where the applicant lives. Repeat applications are welcomed and expected as the care need continues.

Applications remain subject to a confidential assessment of financial need and a response can be provided quickly. If you are caring for a loved one and feel that you would benefit from a break, please contact the Fund for further details.

Respite Care is available to those who have a long term caring commitment and should not be confused with convalescent care. The latter is usually associated with the desire to have a period of care to assist with recuperation after surgery or a stay in hospital. The MSF does not currently consider applications for convalescent care. Any enquiries for support should be directed first to the medical professional who has advised that convalescence is required.