Availability varies a lot by area, so ask early and ask again. Voluntary organisations also run respite, sometimes called Breakaway or Friendship schemes.
Quick facts
- What
- Short-term care so you can rest
- Arrange through
- Public health nurse or GP
- Where
- At home, a family, or a residential setting
- Carer's Support Grant
- Yearly; automatic with Carer's Allowance
- Without a carer's payment
- You can still apply for the grant
What respite is
"Respite care is when you can take a break from caring, and the person you care for is looked after by someone else." It can be for older people or people with a disability, and last an evening or a holiday.
For children with disabilities, it can be with a family, one-to-one care, overnights in a residential setting, or summer camps. "At summer camps (this is included in the cost covered by the HSE)".
How to arrange it
"Respite care is organised through your public health nurse or family doctor (GP)." Contact your local primary care centre to arrange an assessment of the needs of the person you care for.
"The availability of respite care depends on where you are located in the country". Family Carers Ireland can tell you what exists locally.
The Carer's Support Grant
"The Carer's Support grant is paid automatically to carers getting Carer's Allowance , Carer's Benefit , or Domiciliary Care Allowance ." "If you are not getting one of these payments, you can still qualify for the Carer's Support Grant."
"Only one Carer's Support Grant can be paid for each person getting care."
Common questions
How do I get respite care in Ireland?
Through your public health nurse or GP, who arrange an assessment of the needs of the person you care for. Voluntary organisations also offer respite.
Does the HSE pay for respite?
HSE-organised respite is available, though it depends on your area. For children with disabilities, summer camps are included in the cost covered by the HSE.
Can I get the Carer's Support Grant without Carer's Allowance?
Yes. It's automatic with Carer's Allowance, Carer's Benefit or Domiciliary Care Allowance, but others can still qualify.
Can two carers both get the Carer's Support Grant?
No. Only one grant can be paid for each person getting care.