Michael McGimpsey, the Minister for Health, Social Services and Public Safety, said this funding package would help to address the problems of accessing respite care, particularly for carers of children.
Respite care offers people time out from caring for relatives and friends who have varying degrees of health and social care needs. Care can be provided in the person’s own home or in another setting which is conducive to their needs.
He said: “The recent changes within the health and social care structures provide an opportunity to ensure that the five new integrated Trusts share best practice which will include looking at how best to meet demand for this type of care.
“Further resources are always going to be needed in this area of care and we must look at innovative ways of delivering this service.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- There are 4,000 adults and children with a learning disability receiving respite care.
- Media enquiries to DHSSPS Press Office 028 9052 2841 or after 5pm to duty press officer 07699 715440.
