ILC Respite and Carelink
Service description
Since October 2005, the needs of carers and those being cared for, have been met by a National network of 54 co-located Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres. Centres specialise in providing information, support and referral to community and respite services for older people, people with disabilities, people with a mental illness, people receiving palliative care and their carers.
The Independent Living Centre is the auspice body for the North Metropolitan, Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre.
Service Coverage
1. Carelink
Carelink provides assistance to the general public seeking information, support and referral onto the relevant aged, disability, mental health and general community care services. Carelink also provides current information on service availability, waitlists, fees and eligibility criteria. The centre aims to make it easier for people to find care and support to live independently in the community.
2. Respite
Respite supports carers by providing them with a short break from their caring roles, enabling them to have time to themselves. The Respite centre also aims to support the carer by linking them into ongoing carer support services and assists carers in accessing regular respite breaks. Respite care is very flexible and can be a planned break or assistance with an emergency or unexpected situation. Respite can include
- Out of home respite (such as residential, day centres, cottage homes etc)
- In home respite with a carer coming to your home
Other short term help such as cleaning, laundry, meals, transport, hire of equipment, counselling, remedial treatment, education and training, or minor home modifications, may also be respite options.
For information on aged care please go to www.agedcareaustralia.gov.au
Who we can help (eligibility)
A primary carer is defined as a family member, friend or neighbour who provides regular and ongoing care to another person without payment. All primary carers are individually assessed according to their relative need.
The carer must live in the North Metropolitan region and be the PRIMARY CARER for people with a permanent disability, dementia, frail aged, mental health issues, and individuals requiring palliative care. However, by phoning 1800 052 222 you will be diverted to the relevant service centre for your area.
Fees
Carelink, is a free information service. Respite centres, encourage carers to contribute towards the cost of respite services if they are able to. However, no person will be refused a respite service if they are unable to make a contribution.
Funding
The Commonwealth Respite and Carelink programme is funded by the Department of Health and Ageing.
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Contact
| Person: | Enquiry Line 13 / 386 Wanneroo Road, WESTMINSTER, WA 6061 |
| Telephone: | 1800 052 222 |
| Freecall*: | 1800 052 222 |
| Fax: | (08) 9381 0688 |
| comcarelink@ilc.com.au | |
| Service Manager: | (08) 9381 0600 |
| Open: | Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm WST |
| After Hours – emergency/unplanned respite, please call 1800 052 222 |