|
|
Flexible Respite Accounts are Opened
West Lothian Community Health and Care Partnership (CHCP) is delighted to announce its' latest initiative.People with dementia living at home and their carer will be offered a real choice in terms of the respite break they can access.
The Respite Account has been developed in response to discussions with carers who identified they would like more control over when and what type of short break (respite) is made available. It allows carers to arrange the short break(s) which best suits their needs as well as those of the person they care for.
The concept is not dissimilar in some respects to a bank account. With those considered eligible being offered the opportunity to request a ?respite account? is opened on their behalf. West Lothian Community Health and Care Partnership will then, rather than arrange respite break(s) on behalf of the individuals concerned, lodge a sum of money on behalf of the individuals concerned, in the ?respite account?.
People are then able to arrange their own respite break with the funds held within the account subsequently being used by the Community Health and Care Partnership to cover or contribute to the cost.
Theresa Douglas, Chair of West Lothian Community Health and Care Partnership said: "Carers provide an invaluable service within our community and it is vital that they are given the opportunity to take a break from their everyday routine.
"Introducing respite accounts in West Lothian means the carer, who is best placed to know the needs of the individual being cared for and their own needs, is now able to organise a short break which best meets their joint requirements."
Isabel Hutton, Executive Councillor for social policy said: "This is an excellent development for carers as well as those whom they care for, I?d urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible to get in touch and participate in this scheme."
If you think you are eligible and would like further information, please contact your local Social Work office during normal working hours using the following numbers:
For those with dementia aged 65 years plus contact the Bathgate Social Work Office on 01506 776700.
For those with dementia who are younger than 65 years of age contact Broxburn Social Work Office on 01506 775666.
Alternatively if you currently have a social worker you may choose to contact them direct.
For more information on the health and social care services delivered by West Lothian CHCP, please visit www.westlothianchcp.org.uk
Wed Mar 02 14:34:44 GMT 2011
|
|
|
Home
