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Respite Care
Carers need care too. Being a primary carer is a challenging role that can be emotionally and physically demanding, leading to social isolation and chronic tiredness.
Respite is an important way to relieve the stress of being a carer whether it is in your home, in the community or in an aged care home. We understand that it is important for carers to make time for themselves. This might be for a few hours, overnight or an extended period.
mecwacare has a proud history of providing respite services across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Frequently asked questions
Who delivers respite services?
All mecwacare direct care workers are trained professionals who hold a current Police Check.
What are some of the examples of respite service that can be arranged in my home or in the community?
For example, playing board games, gardening together, walking to the park, visiting a local library, visiting a shopping centre, having coffee at a nearby cafe, attending a group activity with friends, such as lawn bowls.
How much does it cost to access mecwacare respite care services?
For government-funded services, mecwacare will ask clients to pay a co-contribution. This fee is based on two key areas: your income level and your ability to pay. The fee is an hourly rate and will be discussed and agreed before the service commences. A fee schedule will be attached to your service agreement with mecwacare.
How can I access mecwacare services?
mecwacare delivers a range of government-funded programs, including the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACC PYP), Support for Carers Program and many others. If you are aged over 65, please contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to check your eligibility for help at home for older people. My Aged Care will organise an assessment and make a referral to mecwacare if it suits your needs.
If you are under 65 and require assistance with daily living or you are unsure which program will suit you most, please contact our friendly team on 8573 4980 to check your eligibility and service options.
What happens if I won’t be available at the time my respite service is booked?
We understand that life does not always go to plan and that you may have appointments and unexpected commitments. Please let us know at least 24 hours before the booked time so that we can reschedule your services.
If you do not answer your door at the time of a scheduled visit or scheduled collection/appointment, we will:
- Attempt to call you
- If no response, contact your primary contacts, as relevant
- If still no response, our office may call the police and request a welfare check.