Whether it will require respite care facilities to be given equivalent status to sheltered housing and low cost accommodation in future pla…

The Executive regularly meets carers' organisations, including respite care providers, to discuss a range of issues including the provision of respite care. Comprehensive guidance on respite care policy and practice was issued to local authorities by the Scottish Office in 1996. This guidance is still in force. In addition, since April 2002, where respite care includes the provision of accommodation, the service must be registered with the Care Commission, which takes account of National Care Standards in regulating such services. It is for local authorities and NHS services locally to decide on the best way to provide respite services to meet local needs and priorities. Planning authorities need to take account of all relevant matters when considering planning applications for respite care facilities, which may include guidance on policy and practice, and national care standards.