Entry-level respite providers have a new training option from the ARCH National Respite Network and ACL (Administration for Community Living). The National Respite Care Provider Training program follows a country-wide initiative to enhance respite services. The 2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers calls for improved access to respite services. This online program aims to make respite care services more accessible and easier to perform. The program was created through the collaboration of:
- ARCH
- National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP)
- Respite Care Association of Wisconsin
Respite care provides family caregivers short breaks. These breaks allow families to provide better and longer care. Research shows that these breaks benefit not only caregivers but also the people they care for and their families. Many caregivers request respite care more than most services. Yet, it can be hard to find in many areas.
What is the Respite Care Provider Training?
The National Respite Care Provider Training (NRCPT) is an online course. A pilot version in 2002 tested the program in 2022 in ten states. 559 entry-level providers completed the training in 2022. Of that total, 90% were either very satisfied or satisfied with the program. Other pilot program findings included:
- 62% of entry-level learners were completely new to respite care
- 63% lived in small towns or rural areas
- 70% of learners wanted to continue towards providing respite care in the near future
- Core competencies improved throughout the course as test scores improved from 66% to 75% from pre and post test assessments
- Learners believed the course helped them feel more prepared for working in respite care than before
The program focuses on key skills for new respite providers. The training is available for free to state agencies and community groups. It teaches 10 important skills. These skills include:
- Respite cares role in home care services
- Ensuring services honor cultural and language needs
- Care recipients are protected from harm
The respite care training program is offered in both English and Spanish. A toolkit is also available for states wanting to create their own curriculum based on this model. The training is free, but organizations need to fill out a request form to gain access.
For questions, contact info@respiteprovidertraining.com.