Last month, I had to stay in short term accommodation after my usual carer couldn’t make it. When I got there, a support worker I’d never met was assigned to help me. They were polite, but I felt uncomfortable not knowing who they were or if they understood what I needed. Being in a new place with a stranger made me feel tense and a bit lost. It made me ask myself—do I get any say in who supports me during these stays? I think I’d feel a lot safer and more relaxed if I could choose someone I trust or at least have a say in the process.

Hi Cooper, yes you can choose your support worker during STA. I asked for someone I trusted, and the provider made it happen. It made the whole stay feel safer and more comfortable. If you can, go with a provider that offers respite accommodation they’re usually more flexible.