HSE must maintain high level of respite care – Burke

Fine Gael Cork North Central Senator, Colm Burke, has today (Thursday), called on the HSE to maintain the high numbers of people receiving respite care. Senator Burke was speaking after the release of HSE figures showing that 6,208 people benefitted from residential centre based respite services last year.

“Residential respite care is a hugely important lifeline for so many families in Ireland. Recent figures I received from the HSE showed that 6,208 people benefitted from residential centre based respite services last year. This represents an increase on the 2012 figure and the numbers look set to increase again in 2014 with half year figures up to June showing 5,227 people having benefitted.

“Last year the number of bed nights in residential centre based respite services used by people with disabilities was 242,699. This great service is reaching high volumes of people and I urge the HSE to maintain these figures to ensure that we continue to reach those who really need this service.

“Residential respite care provides an invaluable break for families caring for children and adults with disabilities. Children account for about 56% of the total number of respite bed nights utilised each year. It really gives parents the break they deserve and need, particularly when you consider they may also have other children.

“Without respite care, the pressure on families who are already struggling would be massive. I commend all the staff involved in the provision of this great service and I urge the HSE to continue to prioritise it.”