The aim of Respitality is to provide a short vital break from routine for unpaid carers in Scotland when they need it most. This is achieved by connecting carers’ organisations with hospitality, tourism and leisure businesses who are willing to donate a break free of charge.
Respitality
Why is Respitality needed?
Being an unpaid carer can have positive and rewarding aspects, but it can also be isolating as well as physically and mentally demanding. For a range of reasons, including financial pressures, carer concerns and limited time, it is often difficult for carers to take the time out to fully recharge, or to spend quality time on their own or with family and friends.
What are the benefits to Carers?
Carers are welcome to bring the cared for person on the break if they wish. The arrangement of the break is made entirely by the local carer’s organisation; therefore, there is no pressure on the carer to plan their break. Breaks are donated free of charge, therefore Respitality is an affordable short breaks option.
After a Respitality break, carers regularly report:
- an improvement in their health and wellbeing
- an improvement in their relationships with their loved ones
- increased confidence to continue in their caring role
Who delivers Respitality?
Shared Care Scotland co-ordinate the project nationally and work with local carers organisations to support them to deliver Respitality locally.
How do I access a Respitality break?
The process varies across Scotland. In Aberdeenshire, all breaks will be accessed through Aberdeenshire Carers Support Service and our team member Ann Brodie. It is worth noting that this is a new pilot project and Ann will be focusing on the Central area to begin with. However, the aim is that once we are up and running, we will be able to start branching out to cover all areas of Aberdeenshire.
If you are registered with the service and wish to find out about a break through the Respitality project, please let your Family Wellbeing Worker know or telephone the service on 01467 538700.
I have savings – does this mean I am not eligible?
Respitality breaks are not means-tested; therefore, your income and savings are not taken into account. However, other factors may be considered to determine priority (for example, when you last had a break).
Is there a cost?
All breaks donated to Respitality are free; however, there may be other costs such as transport and food.
Get in touch
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, access to Quarriers offices is very restricted, with most teams working remotely for the foreseeable future. Face to face meetings are no longer taking place and we advise anyone with any enquiries to contact us by email.
Quarriers Aberdeenshire Carers Service
Wardes Road
Inverurie
AB51 3TT
Tel: 01467 538700
Email: aberdeenshirecarers@quarriers.org.uk