What is a short break?

A short break is a way of providing you and your carer, if you have one, with a break away from the pressures of your everyday home circumstances. It gives you an opportunity to ‘recharge’ and will help you cope better at home following your break.

How do I get a short break?

If you are able to fund your own short break, you can use the information and ideas in the site to help you plan and organise your own break. If you are already in receipt of Social Work support, contact your care manager and discuss your need to have a break. If you don’t have a care manager, contact Social Work Services.

How much will it cost?

Depending on your finances, you may be asked to make a contribution towards your short break. You will not be asked for information about your carers finances.

• Funding a short break

What type of break could I have?

You can choose from a variety of different options:

• within your own home
• with care/support staff
• a carers home
• a short breaks only house
• B & B, boarding house, hotel, caravan, lodge
• activity break
• bus tour.
   
• Ways to have a short break 

Can I take my family or carer with me?

Yes, some people choose to take a break with their carer, family or friends. There are many self catering or activity type breaks that can accomodate small groups or family units.

• Ways to have a short break

Can my carer get funding for a short break?

Scottish Borders Council can only provide funding for people directly using Social Work services.  For more information about funding for carers, contact The Princess Royal Trust Borders Carers Centre.

How can I arrange for care during my break?

If you are having a break away from home, then arrangements could be made with care agency staff within the area you are having your break.

If you are already in receipt of care at home services and are choosing to remain at home for your break while your carer goes away, it may be that your care/support could be increased for the time he or she is away. You would need to discuss this option with your care manager. 

• Planning a short break

How can I arrange transport?

There are various organisation who can assist with transport arrangements and guidance.

• Transport