Dr Kirsten Stalker is a Reader in the Education Faculty at Strathclyde University. She has published widely in the field of social work.

This first rate book describes the latest developments in short-term care for various groups of people who need occasional or regular support away from home... It is the first time short-term care services for different client groups have been critically examined in one book. While acknowledging the differences between the groups, the message is that each person, whatever their problem or disadvantage, shares a common need for respect and dignity when using any type of short-term care. They should enjoy what is offered and feel welcome, safe and secure... This wise, interesting and beautifully written book deserves to be widely read.

• Introduction. Principles, Policy and Practice in Short-Term Care. 2. Taking a Break or Respite Services for Adults with Learning Disabilities. 3. Short-Term Care: Parental Perspectives. 4. Costing Breaks and Opportunities. 5. The Conundrum of Quality. 6. Breaks for Disabled Children. 7. Family-based Short-Term Breaks for Children in Need. 8. Home and Away: People with Dementia and their Carers. 9. Cairdeas House: Developing Good Practice in Short Breaks for Individuals with Mental Health Problems. 10. Innovation in Supporting Adults with Learning Disabilities. The contributors.