Rockingham respite house open for families

• Part of Govt's $11.75m election promise to build five respite centres in WA
• Rocky Bay will run the centre to cater for people requiring high support

A purpose-built, six-bed respite house for carers of a family member with disability was opened today in Rockingham by Disability Services Minister Helen Morton.

The Saw Avenue property is the third respite centre completed under the State Government's $11.75million election commitment to build five new respite centres across Western Australia.

"Families and carers are very dedicated and often find their caring role rewarding but it's important they get a break when they need it," Mrs Morton said.

The Minister said the Rockingham house was designed using universal design principles, offering versatile living environments and accessibility.

"This purpose-built respite house will provide a safe and homely environment for people with disability, giving carers confidence the best possible care is being provided to their loved one," she said.

Disability organisation Rocky Bay, which helped design the interior to create a home-like environment, has been appointed the service provider for the commission's South Metropolitan Residential Respite Services.

"With more than 400 people accessing Rockingham's Local Area Coordination services, it is clear there is a high need for disability support in this area," Mrs Morton said.

     Fact File

• About one in 10 West Australians is a family carer of a person with disability, with more than one-third of carers having a disability themselves
• Most carers are women aged between 45 and 54 years who provide an average of 40 hours of care each week
• The first of the five respite centres opened in Broome in 2010
• The second centre in Clarkson was opened in May 2012
• Centres in York and Gosnells are scheduled to be completed in six months

Minister's office - 6552 6900