Acute Respite Care (ARC)
Under the ARC program, children are placed in family-based care for up to 90 days. The ARC program adopts a child-centric framework and functions to provide an interim support system for the parents as they work towards resolving their own crises. Through our direct support for the child, the community social worker is then able to work with parents to put in place longer-term support systems (eg. vocational, familial, and medical accommodation). Ultimately, the primary goal of this service is to stabilize, support, and strengthen the family system so that the child in need is kept safe and out of the child protection system.
Age group: Newborn infants and children up to the age of 8
Duration: Variable, can range from a few hours up to 90 days
Type of Respite Care Arrangements
The type of arrangements will vary depending on the needs of the case and our clients. Some clients may only require an overnight stay while others may need care for a full day. Some also require care over a continuous period of time while others benefit from a recurrent arrangement spread over a longer period of time.
An Overview of ARC
Provide care and shelter for children
(up to 90 days)
Children in respite care arrangements that last beyond a week will return home to their family every week to ensure regular contact and bonding with the natural family
For infants and children up to 8 years of age
We work closely with parents and respite carer to preserve as much of the child's home routine as possible and encourage the development of healthy habits