A new $1.69 million respite service for children with disabilities will officially open today in Forestville, providing a much needed break for families and carers in Sydney’s North.
The new home is one of several being funded by the sale of a property donated by the John Williams Trust, and NSW Minister for Disability Services, Kristina Keneally, will be joined at the opening by the family of the trust as well as local families who will benefit from the respite home.
"When I talk to families of people with disabilities across NSW, one of their clear messages to me is that they want and need more respite so that they can get a break from their significant caring responsibilities," Ms Keneally said.
"Respite is used by families in many ways including giving parents a night off to simply go out for a coffee or see a movie. It is also often used by parents as an opportunity to spend some quality time with their children who do not have disabilities.
"The new five bedroom service at Forestville will provide help to at least 50 local children and families, providing around 1,350 respite days per year.
‘The respite service includes two living areas, a purpose-built kitchen to allow for supervision of children during meal preparation, and two wheelchair accessible outside play areas.
"This is in addition to the features you would expect in a service which is purpose-built for people with disabilities, such as extra wide hallways and accessible bathrooms. "
Ms Keneally said that under Stronger Together, the Iemma Government is making a record investment to give people with disabilities, their families and carers the practical help and support that they need.
"In 2008/09 we are investing $7.2 million in providing respite services across NSW – up $1.2 million on this year – which will deliver an extra 80 respite places to families who need them," Ms Keneally said.
"We have delivered the highest number of respite places ever in NSW, and the lowest number of blocked respite beds in a decade.
"When it comes to services for people with disabilities, there is always more we can do – and we are doing more. The Iemma Government is working to provide support to carers because they need care too."