A Profile of Respite Service Providers in New South Wales

Abstract

Respite is one of the critical support systems for families and carers who support and care for a person with a life‐long disability. This study examined the profile of respite services in the Australian state of New South Wales and explored respite providers’ views of the factors influencing respite use, and their expectations of respite services, including delivery. Data were analysed from a 107‐item survey completed by 90 respite service providers who were members of the peak respite service association in New South Wales. A comprehensive profile of respite service providers is presented. A variety of respite services was provided to persons with different disability types in all age ranges and across geographical regions. The views of respite providers on factors influencing respite use and expectations of respite appear consistent with the research evidence on factors influencing some carers. There is a strong argument for respite service funding to be flexible, responsive to the needs of carers and to be consumer‐driven. Appropriate staff training remains an important issue. The findings suggest that many respite providers have significant experience in running a respite service. There is scope for respite providers to consider support for carers. The development of a tool to determine predictors of respite use and non‐use may be beneficial for resource allocation and planning.