Preparing for an In-Home Respite Shift
A clear handover is especially important when another worker is temporarily taking over support that is usually provided by family, carers or a familiar team.
Prepare the essentials before the worker arrives
Confirm the date, start and finish time, address, access instructions, emergency contacts, participant communication preferences, mobility or transfer needs, personal care routines, meal preferences and the activities planned for the shift.
Document health and medication processes clearly
Provide current medication information and explain the participant’s usual medication process, but make sure workers only perform tasks they are authorised, trained and agreed to perform. Include allergies, relevant health considerations and what to do if the participant becomes unwell.
Explain what a good shift looks like
Describe the participant’s preferred routine, things they enjoy, signs they may be anxious or uncomfortable, how they communicate choices and what helps them feel settled. This context is often more useful than a long list of rules.
Helpful related pages
Continue with the guide or service page that best matches the support arrangement you are planning.
Official NDIS information used for this guide
NDIS rules and terminology can change. These official pages are useful for checking the latest position.
Important: This AIC Services guide is general information, not an NDIS funding decision, clinical advice, emergency advice or legal advice. Participants should check their current plan and official NDIS information for their circumstances. If there is an immediate risk to life or safety, contact the appropriate emergency service.
Frequently asked questions
What should be in a respite handover?
Include support needs, routines, contacts, medication processes, communication preferences, mobility needs, risks, preferred activities and any information required to deliver the agreed support safely.
Should the participant be part of the handover?
Yes, wherever possible and appropriate. The participant should have a say in what information is shared and how their support will work.
Do I need to prepare everything again for every shift?
Keep a current written support summary and update only what has changed, while still confirming the specific timing and plans for each booking.
Contact AIC Services
AIC Services
54 Main Road
Moonah, TAS 7009
Phone:
1300 023 456
Email:
support@aicservices.com.au
Office Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
54 Main Road, Moonah TAS 7009
To reduce unnecessary third-party requests, interactive mapping is available from our Contact page and Moonah office page.
Contact details & map