Choosing a respite care provider for your loved one is a deeply personal decision—one that requires more than a checklist. You’re entrusting someone else to care for a person you love, which means safety, respect, and compassion are non-negotiable. Whether it’s your parent, child, sibling or partner, you want to be sure they’ll be supported, listened to, and cared for like family. The good news? With the right NDIS respite care provider, it’s absolutely possible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what respite care is, what to look for in a provider, and why families across Western Australia trust Reaching Abilities to deliver quality short-term care with heart.
What Is Respite Care and Why It Matters
Respite care is a short-term care arrangement that allows primary carers to take a break while ensuring the person they support continues to receive high-quality care. Funded through the NDIS as part of Short-Term Accommodation (STA), it can be planned or used in emergencies—and might last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks.
But respite care isn’t just about taking time off. It’s also a chance for the NDIS participant to enjoy:
- A change of scenery
- New social experiences
- A sense of independence and fun
- Routines tailored to their preferences
For carers, it’s an essential service that helps prevent burnout, reduce stress, and give peace of mind. For participants, it’s an opportunity for personal growth, social interaction, and wellbeing.
Whether you’re a full-time parent of a child with disability or supporting an ageing loved one with dementia, quality NDIS respite care provides the breathing room you need while your loved one thrives in a safe, supportive environment.
Key Qualities to Look for in a Respite Provider
Not all respite care providers are created equal. The right fit can make all the difference—not only for your peace of mind, but for your loved one’s quality of life. Here are the key qualities to look for:
✅ Experienced, Compassionate Staff
Look for support workers with both the qualifications and lived experience relevant to your loved one’s needs. For example, if they have dementia, autism, or a complex physical disability, make sure the staff are trained accordingly. Compassion and patience are just as important as clinical knowledge.
✅ A Home-Like Environment
The physical space should be safe, clean, and welcoming—not sterile or impersonal. Does the participant get their own room? Is there space to relax, play, or take part in activities? Does it feel like home, not a hospital?
✅ Personalised Care Plans
Good providers offer individualised care, not a one-size-fits-all model. That means routines, meals, activities, and communication styles are adapted to each participant. Your loved one should feel like their preferences are heard and respected.
✅ Clear Communication
Families should feel informed and included. You want a provider that gives regular updates, welcomes questions, and involves you in decision-making. Open communication builds trust—and ensures everyone is on the same page.
✅ NDIS Registration and Compliance
Ensure the provider is NDIS registered and follows best-practice standards for safety, dignity, and participant wellbeing. This includes appropriate staffing ratios, incident reporting protocols, and compliance with NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission requirements.
✅ Flexibility
Life isn’t always predictable. The best respite providers offer flexibility in bookings, cancellation policies, and care needs—whether you’re planning ahead or responding to an urgent situation.
Before locking in respite care, make time to ask the right questions. These help uncover the provider’s values, readiness, and suitability for your situation—and ensure your loved one will receive the level of care they deserve.
1. What experience do your staff have with my loved one’s specific needs?
This gives you insight into the training, confidence, and adaptability of carers—especially for conditions like dementia, autism, or complex behavioural challenges. Don’t hesitate to ask for real-life examples or outcomes.
2. Can we visit the home or meet the team beforehand?
A tour helps you assess the environment, meet the staff, and see how your loved one responds to the space. Look for friendly interactions, a tidy and safe home, and a sense of calm and care.
3. How do you handle medical or behavioural needs?
If your loved one requires medication, mobility assistance, or behavioural support, ask about protocols, risk plans, and staff training. Good providers will have clear processes and contingency plans in place.
4. What kind of activities or routines are offered?
Look for engaging, age-appropriate, and meaningful programs. Does your loved one have a say in what their day looks like? Are there quiet areas, creative spaces, or sensory-friendly options?
5. How are concerns or emergencies handled?
Ask about after-hours support, emergency contact protocols, and what happens if your loved one becomes unwell during their stay. Reassurance comes from knowing there’s a solid safety net.
6. How is the family kept informed?
Will you get updates via phone, email, or a daily log? Clear and regular communication builds confidence and connection. Some providers may even offer photos, updates, or progress notes to keep you in the loop.
Asking these questions not only helps you make an informed decision—it shows the provider that you’re engaged, proactive, and advocating for your loved one’s wellbeing.
Why Families Choose Us for Respite Care in WA
At Reaching Abilities, we understand that great respite care means going beyond the basics. Families across Western Australia choose us because we combine professional excellence with heartfelt care.
Here’s what makes our approach different:
💙 Staff That Truly Care
All of our support workers are NDIS trained, highly experienced, and passionate about person-centred care. Many have additional training in dementia care, autism, and trauma-informed support. More importantly, we treat every participant like family.
🏡 A Personalised, Home-Like Setting
Our respite homes are calm, welcoming, and custom-designed for comfort and safety. Participants are given space to relax, explore hobbies, and follow routines that feel familiar. Whether it’s a quiet weekend away or an active short stay, we match environments to your loved one’s needs.
🧠 A Founder With Deep NDIS Knowledge
Our founder brings 8+ years of NDIS expertise, including plan management, participant advocacy, and care coordination. That means we don’t just provide respite—we support the whole journey.
🗓️ Flexible Options, Seamless Transitions
Need a weekend away? Planning ahead for school holidays? Responding to an unexpected emergency? Our team works with you to find short-term care options that fit your timeline and your loved one’s comfort level.
🌿 Above-and-Beyond Care
We believe in doing more than what’s “funded.” That means meaningful engagement, creative activities, outings when possible, and heartfelt moments that make a difference. We care because it matters.
Conclusion
Choosing a respite care provider is about more than just filling a gap—it’s about finding a team you can trust with someone you love. At Reaching Abilities, we don’t take that lightly. From the very first enquiry, our focus is on listening to your needs, creating a personalised care experience, and making sure both you and your loved one feel confident, respected, and supported every step of the way.
When done right, NDIS respite care gives participants a sense of enjoyment and comfort—and gives families the space to rest and recharge, knowing their loved one is in good hands.
Ready to explore respite care with heart?
Looking for trusted respite care in Western Australia?
Contact Reaching Abilities today to arrange a consultation and learn how we deliver family-style support that truly makes a difference.
Ozer Tanlasi – Founder and Director of Reaching Abilities
Ozer Tanlasi is the Founder and Director of Reaching Abilities, an organisation dedicated to providing compassionate and empowering support to individuals with disabilities. With a background in allied health and a deep commitment to inclusive care, Ozer established Reaching Abilities to create a welcoming space where individuals can thrive, gain independence, and achieve their personal goals. Her approach is centred around understanding each individual’s unique needs and strengths, ensuring they receive tailored services that make a positive impact on their lives. Under Ozer’s leadership, Reaching Abilities has become known for its compassionate, client-focused approach, supporting individuals and families in building meaningful connections and reaching new potentials.
