Cumbersome rules hinder carers from using respite services, Ombudsman says

The Office of The Ombudsman has launched a direct investigation into respite services for the elderly and persons with disabilities, finding that complex application procedures have discouraged many carers from seeking help.

According to the investigation report released Thursday, some service units required applicants to meet staff in advance or undergo home visits before approval. The Ombudsman noted that such arrangements could discourage carers, especially when they face urgent situations and need immediate assistance.

The office recommended that service providers review the necessity of in-person meetings and consider conducting assessments via phone or video calls to simplify the process and make the service more accessible.

The investigation also found that the Social Welfare Department (SWD) requires users to complete a health check before admission to residential respite service units.

Through mystery calls to 46 service units, the Ombudsman discovered that some facilities asked applicants to pay for additional medical tests beyond the official requirements, creating unnecessary hurdles for carers.

The report further revealed that in some cases, applicants were asked to contact doctors on their own to arrange health checks, adding to their financial and logistical burden.

The Ombudsman recommended that the SWD encourage service homes and case social workers to take a more proactive role in assisting applicants facing difficulties, ensuring that carers in need can access respite services without excessive administrative barriers.