Parenting a child with a developmental disability can be an overwhelming, full-time responsibility. When parents/primary caregivers don’t take time for themselves, it can negatively impact their personal relationships and social interaction. This can lead to feelings of isolation and instability within the family. Out-of-home placement of the eligible family member is a very expensive alternative. 

Respite workers allow family members the opportunity to take a break from their caregiver responsibilities by providing appropriate care and supervision of the TCRC authorized consumer (child or adult) in his/her home.

On-call respite workers are available for all authorized families, but have the flexibility to accept or decline any request, by time, day or location preferences. 

According to the Department of Developmental Services, all respite workers must meet certain requirements. The rules apply to every respite services agency in California. Because of the DDS directive, the only distinction between on-call and designated staff now is if a respite worker will provide the service for only one family or be available for many families, who can still sign-up one or more individuals as their designated respite worker(s). On-call respite workers are hired by Respite, Inc. Designated respite workers are hired by the parents/guardian, but are paid through Respite, Inc. insuring standard payroll procedures are followed and that federal and state deductions are paid.

Current pay rates are: $9.75 per hour for designated respite workers, and $10.25 - $12.00 per hour (based on experience) for On-Call respite workers, plus mileage reimbursement. Due to ongoing state budget issues, these rates can change without notice.

Responsibilities/Duty Statement:

• CPR/First Aid training
• disability related experience and/or training
• clear a criminal history background check *
• provide personal and/or professional references *
• be physically capable of performing tasks
• if applicable, hold a valid driver’s license and vehicle insurance
  • transportation of consumers is not allowed
• locate the signed Emergency Contact Information/Treatment Waiver form before providing respite
• obtain written instructions if oral medication is to be administered during family members’ absence
• log any changes noticed about or related to the consumer and/or his/her environment
• report any concerns to the program coordinator (written follow-up may be necessary)
• keep all consumer and family information confidential
• know that work hours vary and there is no provision for overtime pay
• maintain and submit timesheets
• participate in special needs related training, at least annually

* Parent(s)/Guardian(s) may waive the background check and/or reference requirement when designating a respite worker.