Taking a break from caring

Everyone needs a break sometimes – especially people who care for others. In Knowsley, we call this kind of break respite care. It means someone else steps in to help the person who needs care, so their usual carer can take time off.

How to Get Respite Care

Social Care Needs Assessment

A social care assessment is the way we decide if you have needs that we can support you with. This is called being eligible for care and support. During the assessment, we will have a conversation with you about what things you can do for yourself, what is important to you and what you want to achieve. Before the assessment, we will share information with you about the eligibility criteria for care and support, and we will share the outcome of the assessment with you too. There is no charge for a social care assessment, and it can be carried out with anybody who lives in Knowsley who may have care and support needs.

To arrange a Social Care Needs Assessment:

Call our First Response team on 0151 443 2600.

Complete the Social Care needs assessment form on our website.

If you are making a referral for somebody else, you should make sure that you have their permission before contacting us.

  • If you are eligible for respite care, we can help you or your carer to plan and arrange it.
  • If you already have a care and support plan with us, you or your carer can contact us to find out more about respite care.

If something happens and respite care is needed urgently, the Council will arrange support as quickly as possible.

Carer’s Assessment

We can also consider the needs of your carer, as well as your own needs. This is called a Carer’s Assessment and it includes exploring how respite care could help you both. During the assessment, we will have a conversation with your carer about their needs, how their caring role affects them and how we can support them to improve their wellbeing. In the first instance, your carer can contact Knowsley Carers Hub who will provide information, advice and guidance, and a wide range of support services. If Knowsley Carers Hub feels that your carer needs more support than they can offer, they will complete a referral for a Carer’s Assessment by the Council.

Respite gives carers a chance to take a break from their caring responsibilities and focus on themselves. It helps carers to stay well and continue in their role and it can reduce or delay the need for more intensive support from social care services.

Carers might use respite time to:

  • Go to their own appointments, like medical check-ups or other important commitments
  • Rest and recharge emotionally, helping to lower stress and avoid burnout
  • Learn new skills or refresh existing ones for work
  • Spend quality time with family and friends or enjoy hobbies and leisure activities.

To arrange a Carer’s Assessment:

Call Knowsley Carers Hub on 0151 549 1412.

 You can find out more about a Carer’s Assessment on our website.

Alternatively, you can call our Adult Social Care Team on 0151 443 2600.

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