FAQs For those interested in providing Respite Care in a child’s home

What is respite?

Respite is defined as “an interval of rest or relief”. The Respite Care Program of Child and Family Focus (CFF) provides short-term, temporary care to families who need a break from the daily challenges of caring for a child with mental health needs.

Why do some children need respite?

All caregivers need relief from time to time. For parents raising children with mental health diagnoses, their need for a break is even more crucial; however, their options for finding appropriate care are limited. This is where our program and caregivers step in to provide a much-needed break to both the parents and the child.

What are the benefits of respite?

The benefits of respite care are many. The relief given to both the child and family during difficult times can alleviate stress and fatigue, and in turn provide them an opportunity to reenergize. Respite works proactively to support family unity and lends to the well being of all family members.

Am I too young or too old to be a respite provider?

Individuals interested in providing hourly in-home respite care through CFF must be at least 18 years of age and in good mental and physical health (as documented by a physician).

What if I work?

Having a job need not stop you from being a respite provider. Respite needs vary from family to family, so there are often opportunities to provide respite in time frames that do not coincide with your full-time or part-time employment.

As a Respite Provider, would I become a staff member of CFF?

No. Respite Providers through CFF are not employees of, but rather, Independent Contractors with our agency. CFF does not provide to them fringe benefits, including health insurance benefits, paid vacation, or any other employee benefit.

Would I receive financial reimbursement?

Yes. Along with the intangible benefits that come with providing respite care, there is an hourly, taxable, reimbursement that is determined based upon an individual’s relevant experience. CFF does require that our respite providers not rely on this reimbursement as their sole source of income.

What would my legal responsibilities be?

Respite providers must have no criminal or child abuse record, as verified by Act 33 clearances and an FBI background check. Providers must have a valid driver’s license and fully insured car (CFF requires that a parent/guardian drive the child to any community locations/events that the parent wants their child to participate in during respite). All providers become Mandated Reporters of child abuse, according to State of PA law. Providers must be willing to follow rules and regulations set forth by CFF.

Who determines which children are placed with which providers?

In order to decide whether they have the skills necessary to care for a child, respite providers are given information about the child’s history, strengths, mental health issues, behaviors, and, at times, have the opportunity to meet the child and his/her parents ahead of time. The family, respite providers, and CFF team together decide if the match is a good one.

Would I need to care for every child that would be referred / introduced to me?

No. Providers are never obligated, and must be comfortable with and equipped to care for a child that is referred to them; for this reason, we have a comprehensive matching process. CFF respects the decisions of our providers and understands limited preferences and resources. (Please keep in mind that if you prefer to care for a very specific type of child – i.e. a specific age range or diagnosis – your options will be limited).

How often, and in what manner, are respite stays scheduled?

After becoming authorized to receive in-home respite, a family is most often awarded a monthly number of respite hours to utilize. The parent/guardian and provider may directly schedule respite stays that work best for both parties, and must inform a Respite Coordinator of this schedule prior to services taking place. All scheduled services are contingent upon provider availability.

How long would I provide services to a family?

The need for respite in our community is great; because of this reality, we strive to spread our limited funding to provide a break to as many families as possible. To support this goal, we typically re-evaluate a family’s need for respite services every 2-3 months. The ultimate goal is for each family to develop or expand their natural support network. We offer periodic trainings for willing relatives and friends to help them toward this goal.

What procedures does the program have for emergencies?

Emergency contact information is included on CFF’s Respite Referral form, and given to the provider. We require that a Crisis Plan be in place, should an emergency arise during respite.

What support and training would I receive?

CFF provides training, telephone assistance, and crisis support. Providers must be willing to participate in our annual training program, which includes First Aid and CPR.

How can I start the application process?

If you are interested in becoming a Respite Care provider through CFF, you must first submit a Respite Provider application. If you have not already received this application, please contact a Respite Coordinator by calling 866-240-3010 x248. He/She will answer any questions you may have and guide you through the application process.