Is there funding available for respite care in New Zealand?

There may be funding for Respite Care, depending on bed availability in your region. In order to access this funding, an assessment needs to be completed first, your eligibility confirmed, and allocation given.

There are two types of respite care you can receive funding for:

• Planned respite care, where you are allocated up to 28 days of respite per year if you meet the criteria
• Immediate respite care may be available at short notice if you do not have pre-allocated days. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether this is an option for you.

Funded Respite Care

• This is usually provided in a care home. Where you go will be dependent on the level of care you require.
• Eligibility is via an assessment.
• Funding is arranged through your NASC or older person’s service.
• You are usually allocated a set number of days per year, which could range from a single night up to 28 days, depending on your situation and the outcome of your assessment.
• The cost of subsidised care is similar to that of long-term care - from $200 per day - which generally does not cover the full cost so you may be asked to pay a top-up fee to cover the short fall.
• Availability and costs vary by region and even by care home, so it’s advisable to plan ahead and keep a shortlist of preferred facilities.

Other short stay subsidies may be available following assessment including the Carer Support Subsidy  (funding provided via this subsidy is at a lower rate than Respite Care and is intended to be used more in the community setting) day programmes, through to that provided in your own home. Different costs apply and funding may be available for each type for those who qualify.