For years, the term Short-Term Accommodation (STA) was used to describe temporary support stays for people needing time away from their usual environment. Today, this service is more accurately known as Short-Term Respite, a name that better reflects the purpose, care and support behind each stay.
This change is not about replacing the service itself. Instead, it highlights what these stays have always been about: providing individuals and families with a meaningful and supportive break.
Why the Name Change?
Short-Term Respite shifts the focus from the accommodation itself to the experience and emotional relief it provides. While accommodation is part of the service, the core purpose has always been about offering:
- Time apart for families to rest and recharge
- A safe place where individuals feel comfortable and supported
- Help with daily routines and personal care
- Opportunities to enjoy relaxing or social activities
The new name makes the purpose clearer and more meaningful for families seeking support.
What Short-Term Respite Really Means
Short-Term Respite focuses on wellbeing, ensuring people continue their usual routines with caring assistance while families receive space to pause and regroup. During a respite stay, individuals may receive help with:
- Daily personal care
- Mealtime support
- Safe supervision
- Relaxing or enjoyable activities
- Maintaining familiar routines
This type of support aligns with services our team already provides across In-Home Support, Social & Community Participation and Short-Term Respite.
It’s Still the Same Service — Now With a Clearer Name
Nothing has changed about the way the service works. Short-Term Respite still offers:
- Comfortable overnight stays
- Friendly and experienced support workers
- Personalised assistance
- Gentle encouragement to enjoy activities
- A welcoming environment designed to feel safe and reassuring
Families can still expect the same high-quality care and warmth they’ve always known from Angels on Wheels.
Why This Matters for Families
Families rely on support like Short-Term Respite to prevent burnout, manage commitments and maintain balance at home. The new name emphasises that the service is not just a room, it’s a moment of relief for both the individual and their family.
It reflects:
- The shared benefit for individuals and loved ones
- The importance of rest for long-term wellbeing
- The care and consistency that continues during the stay
It’s a more accurate and supportive way to communicate what the service is truly designed for.
What to Expect During a Short-Term Respite Stay
From the moment someone arrives, Short-Term Respite aims to feel calming, welcoming and personalised. Individuals can expect:
- A warm greeting and supportive environment
- Activities based on their personal interests
- Movie time, outings, games or hobbies — whatever they enjoy
- Time to rest and recharge
- Support from a caring team that takes the time to understand their needs
If you want to learn more about how we support people through personalised care, visit our Support Coordination page or explore our Day Program services.
How Angels on Wheels Supports You
At Angels on Wheels, the shift in terminology aligns with the compassionate work we already do. We’re committed to delivering:
- High-quality, person-centred support
- Meaningful breaks for families
- A positive, engaging and safe environment
- Support that respects each individual’s preferences and routines
If you’d like to make an enquiry or speak to our team, you can contact us anytime.
