Flexicare is a flexible respite program that provides in-home and community-based respite for families, who are the primary caregivers of an adult with a disability, and have high support needs.
What is Flexicare Adult's Respite?
Flexicare is a flexible respite program that provides in-home and community-based respite for families, who are the primary caregivers of an adult with a disability, and have high support needs.
This program is funded by the Victorian Department of Human Services – Disability Services.
What is the aim of Flexicare Adult's Respite?
This service aims to support the primary caregivers in maintaining their existing care arrangements, and to give adults with disabilities the opportunity to attain goals and develop, as well as enjoy a lifestyle that is valued by the general community.
Who is eligible?
Each year in the Geelong area, Flexicare Adult's Respite provides respite for up to 25 families who care for an adult or young person aged 18 years or more, who has a disability.
Eligibility is based on the following:
- The individual is registered as having an intellectual disability, physical disability or an Autism Spectrum Disorder, and the primary carer receives the carer's allowance.
- The individual is cared for by an unpaid primary carer and lives at home with their carer.
- The primary carer has a demonstrated need for respite due to the person's disability and other family factors, which have an impact on the family's ability to cope (such as a single parent family; aged, frail or unwell parents; or, other family members with a disability).
- The primary carer is at risk of being unable to continue to care for the person with a disability in the family home.
- The individual and carer live in the Geelong region, including the Borough of Queenscliffe and Surf Coast Shire.
How much respite may we be entitled to, and how much will it cost?
Each family will receive a service that is responsive to their needs and goals, as defined in their personalised respite plan. Allocations of respite can be up to 180 hours per annum and are made annually.
For details of the costs associated with this program refer to the Gateways Feed Schedule 2009.
How do I get more details?
For more information about Flexicare Adult's Respite contact the Gateways Respite and Recreation Manager via Contact Us or on 5221 2984.