NSW Minister for Disability Services, Kristina Keneally, today told NSW Parliament there are now more respite places in NSW than ever before, and the number of respite beds occupied or temporarily ‘blocked’ by people needing permanent accommodation is at a decade low.
"More than one in 10 people in NSW are carers, and while caring for those you know and love is immensely rewarding, it can also be a frustrating and isolating journey," Ms Keneally said.
"Carers are dedicated citizens who make an indispensable contribution to our great state and they need care too - that’s why the NSW Government is rolling out our plan to make more respite places available to people with disabilities and their families.
"Respite places provide a much-needed break for people from their caring role and an opportunity for a person with a disability to socialise and participate in the community.
"Sometimes, for various reasons – including family emergency – a person overstays their allotted time in a respite bed, and it becomes blocked.
"I’m pleased to report today that the number of temporarily ‘blocked’ respite beds is at an all time low with more good results on the way." Ms Keneally said:
• There were 187 temporarily blocked respite beds in 1997;
• Today there are 36 temporarily blocked respite beds;
• There are already plans to move 32 of these people to existing disability accommodation, newly fitted out or constructed accommodation, or back home with extra support; and
• The NSW Government is already working with the remaining 4 people and their families or guardians to find them a better place to live.
"Each respite place provided means up to 12 families per year get a break from the challenges of caring for a person with a disability – often at times like school holidays, over weekends or for a few weeks mid-year," Ms Keneally said.
"Last year the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care provided respite to 6147 people – up almost 2000 places from two years prior.
"Our $1.3 billion Stronger Together plan has significantly increased the number of respite places available and is making a real difference for people with a disability, their families and carers.
"We’ve introduced 1,062 new respite places in the first 18 months of Stronger Together and 791 extra respite places for Older Parent Respite Program.
"The Iemma Government is delivering new supports, more funding and better help – and we are unblocking respite beds – so carers get the break that they need and deserve."