A supported break with purpose ✦  Respite Support

Time to recharge.
Support to connect, grow and feel at ease.

Ability DN provides person-centred respite and short-break support designed around the participant's routines, preferences, interests and support needs. Respite can create meaningful opportunities for participation while also giving families and carers time to rest.

Make a Referral Ask About Respite
Person-Centred Flexible Support Choice and Comfort Community Connection
Ability DN participant enjoying a supported respite experience
Support shaped around the participant Routines, communication, comfort and personal preferences are considered before support begins.
✦  Understanding respite

What is respite support?

Respite provides a supported break from a participant's usual routine. Depending on the agreed arrangement, support may take place during the day, in the evening, overnight, in the community or in another suitable setting.

The purpose is not simply to provide time away. A positive respite experience should support the participant's wellbeing, comfort, independence, social connection and enjoyment.

The type, location, duration and level of assistance are discussed before services begin and must align with the participant's needs, service agreement and available funding.

Comfort and routine

Support can reflect familiar routines, communication needs and personal preferences.

Connection and participation

Respite can include activities, outings and opportunities to connect with others.

Choice and control

The participant's goals, interests and level of involvement guide the experience.

Flexible arrangements

Support arrangements are discussed individually and depend on availability and suitability.

✦  Flexible support options

Respite may include

Every respite arrangement is different. The supports below are examples and are confirmed according to the participant's needs and agreed service.

01

Day respite

Support during the day for activities, routines, community access or time in a suitable setting.

02

Evening support

Assistance with evening routines, meals, activities and preparation for the night.

03

Overnight support

Overnight arrangements based on the participant's assessed needs, routines and agreed level of support.

04

Community activities

Supported outings and activities aligned with the participant's interests, goals and preferences.

05

Personal care and routines

Assistance with agreed personal care, meals, medication routines and daily living tasks where required.

06

Skill building

Opportunities to practise independence, decision-making and everyday living skills during the break.

More than time away ✦  A positive respite experience

Support designed to feel safe, meaningful and enjoyable

Before respite begins, Ability DN discusses the participant's communication, routines, interests, support requirements and preferences. This helps create an experience that feels familiar, respectful and purposeful.

1
Understand the participant We gather relevant information about routines, preferences and support needs.
2
Plan the experience Activities, meals, routines and the setting are discussed before support begins.
3
Provide consistent support Support is delivered according to the agreed plan and level of assistance.
4
Communicate clearly Families, nominees and relevant stakeholders receive agreed updates and handover information.
Ability DN participant taking part in a supported community activity
✦  What to expect

Clear planning before respite begins

Suitability, availability and support requirements are reviewed before any respite arrangement is confirmed.

We may discuss:

✓Preferred dates, times and duration
✓Daily routines, communication and sensory needs
✓Personal care, health and medication requirements
✓Meals, activities, interests and community access
✓Emergency contacts and relevant support information

Before confirmation, we check:

✓Whether Ability DN can safely meet the participant's needs
✓Worker availability and the suitability of the arrangement
✓The agreed supports, costs and service expectations
✓Relevant consents, plans and risk information
✓The participant's funding and service agreement requirements
✦  Getting started

A simple pathway to respite support

Participants, families, nominees and Support Coordinators can contact Ability DN to discuss respite needs and possible arrangements.

1

Enquire or refer

Contact Ability DN or submit a referral with the participant's available details.

2

Discuss the needs

We learn about routines, preferences, support requirements and the type of break being requested.

3

Review suitability

We assess the proposed arrangement, availability, funding and any relevant support or risk information.

4

Confirm the plan

Agreed details are documented before the respite support begins.

✦  Common questions

Respite FAQs

These answers provide general information. Individual arrangements depend on participant needs, availability, funding and the agreed service.

Is respite the same for every participant?
No. Respite arrangements vary according to the participant's support needs, preferences, goals, routines, funding and the suitability of the proposed setting.
Can respite include overnight support?
Overnight support may be considered where it is suitable, available and agreed. The level of overnight assistance must be discussed and confirmed before services begin.
Can activities and community outings be included?
They may form part of the respite experience when appropriate and agreed. Activity costs, transport and other expenses are clarified during planning.
How far in advance should respite be requested?
Early enquiries are recommended because availability, staffing, participant needs and the proposed dates all need to be reviewed before an arrangement can be confirmed.
Can a family member or Support Coordinator make a referral?
Yes. Participants, families, nominees, Support Coordinators and other professionals can contact Ability DN with the participant's appropriate consent.
Plan a supported break

Looking for respite that feels personal and purposeful?

Tell us about the participant's preferred dates, routines, interests and support requirements. Our team will review the request and explain the next suitable step.

Make a Referral Contact Ability DN Call 0480 317 855