Respite is a temporary, short term program designed to relieve and support the primary family caregiver of someone with a serious mental illness who lives at home.
What are the Program Goals?
- To give the caregivers some relief or a break.
- Help reduce stress and improve the well-being of the family
- Have a positive influence on the person affected
Who are the respite workers?
- BCSS Victoria Branch provides trained, qualified professionals who are experienced in mental health services.
For the Caregiver:
- Provide periodic breaks from care-giving.
- Alleviate stress in the home and improve the well-being of the family.
- Give peace of mind in the knowledge that their ill family member is in a safe and supportive environment.
- Provide the opportunity to feel independent again.
- Share the burden of responsibility.
- Trained Respite worker will encourage independence and self sufficiency.
- Respite Worker can accompany the ill family member to activities they otherwise would not participate in.
For the Individual/Client:
- Provide a break from his or her regular caregiver.
- Alleviate stress and isolation.
- Provide support and assistance.
- Provide planned outings such as walks, swimming, shopping, lunch, coffee, or…?
- Provide an opportunity to pursue personal interests.
- Encourage participation in community, social, recreational or educational programs.
- Provide the opportunity to feel independent again.
- Assist in developing life skills and gain independence.
Call BCSS Victoria Branch for more information (250) 384-4225
