Since September 1, 1998 In-Home Respite has been providing short-term, non-therapeutic, childcare to children with a current mental health diagnosis. Respite is funded by round four reinvestment funds, supported by the Niagara Family Support Services and Respite Program.

The purpose is to provide the parent/guardian a reliable, planned break to prevent escalation of situations that could result in an out of home placement. In-Home Respite allows the primary caregiver to have periods of relief that can reduce the family's stress level, therefore, increasing the caregiver’s ability to provide childcare. Decreasing stress in the family can reduce the need for higher levels of services such, as hospitalization and out-of-home placements.

In-Home Respite services will be offered based on worker availability. Respite requests generally are offered from three to six hours at a time. Additionally, families can use respite time to run personal errands, attend professional/personal appointments, spend time with family and friends, or just to relax. Respite services will only be provided within the family's home.

Referrals are accepted from SMILE group participants, indivdual families, outside counseling services, and the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. This service is available to children up to 18 years of age, who reside in Niagara County.

Families must take part in a face-to-face home visit. The home environment must pass an in-home safety assessment. Also, the parent/gardian must agree to abide by the caregiver's guidelines and sign appropriate releases, including a release of information and medical consent forms. Participation in respite services is strictly voluntary and can be withdrawn at any time.

Respite workers must be 21 years of age or older and have experience working with children and families. They must have graduated from high school, a two-year Associate Degree in a related field is preferred. Additionally, they must have a valid drivers license and a reliable vehicle.

Respite workers will be interviewed by the In-Home Respite Coordinator and Compeer Director. The New York State Central Register must clear all potential respite workers, and all workers must undergo fingerprinting.

All candidates are required to complete and show proficiency in the In-Home Respite program training and become certified in Crisis Prevention Intervention. The 19 hour training will cover the following: Policy and Procedures of the In-Home Respite Program, Respite Care, Effective Use of Activities, First Aid, Child Abuse reporting, Dealing with Children with Behavioral/Emotional Issues and Crisis Intervention, De-escalation and Non Violent Restraint and Medical and Safety Needs.

Respite workers are required to attend on-going in-service trainings. Training is provided in part by staff, parents, Niagara County DSS and the Red Cross. The In-Home Respite Coordinator will discuss with the Respite Worker the individual’s needs with the specific assignment(s) as they are made.