Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of the questions often asked by prospective clients. However, everyone's needs will be different, so please get in touch if you have any questions that aren't covered here.
Is Cherish Respite care funded?
Cherish Respite is a private agency. While our services are not government funded, there are situations in which clients may have their own funding and this can be used for our services. Each case is unique, so it’s best to get in touch, and we can talk through your situation.
Where is the care provided?
In the client’s home. This may be the family home, a retirement village, or even a care facility. Talk to us about what’s possible. If the client is housed in a care facility, we would work with the staff to ensure we are following their guidelines.
Currently, Cherish Respite operates in New Plymouth, North Taranaki, and some areas in South Taranaki.
What is “Holistic Care”
Holistic care means taking into account more than just your physical needs. While physical needs are important, we also ensure we are respecting and upholding your spiritual, cultural, psychological and emotional needs. We will always endeavour to have the same Carers assigned to a client, as we recognise continuity of care plays a big role in making our clients feel safe and building trust with one another.
Is there a minimum number of hours per week?
Yes. Each shift is a minimum of 3 hours, and shifts are generally the same time each week. This allows client and Carer to spend quality time, and build a routine together. Shift duration and timing may be altered as needs change, however we do ask for as much notice as possible when requesting changes.
There may be an event or appointment you would like to attend outside of your Carer’s usual shift. We will always try to accommodate this, and suggest you speak to your Carer directly about whether this is possible for them.
Can your Carers help with domestic tasks?
Absolutely! We can assist with tasks such as light housework, meal preparation, laundry gardening, etc. Our aim is to make life easier for you and your family in whatever way we can (within reason!)
How do we match Carers to clients?
It’s important for you to feel comfortable with the people you invite into your home. When matching a new client to their care team, Milly takes a number of factors into consideration. These include your specific cultural, spiritual, physical, psychological and emotional needs. She will also assess whether you need a Nurse or a Carer, the number of care hours required, and will also try to match you with someone who lives close by, to limit mileage costs.
Can Carers accompany clients to medical appointments?
Cherish Respite staff often accompany their clients to checkups, such as annual vision or hearing checks when requested. For other medical appointments, we assess this on a case-by-case basis. Depending on the level of advocacy required, it may be more appropriate to have Milly (rather than your Carer) attend the appointment with you. This service may incur an extra fee.
Are staff able to administer medication?
Yes. If oral medication has been prescribed, our Carers can ensure this is taken at the correct time, and documented. In the case of palliative care, you may require the services of a Registered Nurse, who is able to administer different kinds of medication. This would all be discussed at the initial meeting with Milly.
How are families kept up to date with information on the client’s welfare?
At Cherish Respite, we pride ourselves on looking after the needs of our client, and also their families. Our staff write a report at the completion of each shift, and these are stored securely. These notes can be shared with you, or you may choose only to be notified if there is an issue, or significant change. It's your choice. Options can be discussed at the initial visit.
What is the cost?
Our starting rate is $55 + gst per hour, per Carer. Check our pricelist for a full breakdown of costs.
