South Gloucestershire Council

Published: 22/03/2012

We have launched a campaign to find more carers to take on the role of providing short breaks to disabled children. Caring for a young person with disabilities or learning difficulties can be demanding, so sharing the care, even for just one weekend a month can make a real difference. We are particularly looking for people who can accommodate an overnight stay for young people who may have autism, for example.

Short breaks give children and young people planned periods of care away from their families or foster carers and are designed to help youngsters develop their independence and improve their confidence through having a wider social network. Equally, it gives families the chance to spend quality time with their other children, and have the time to do many things others take for granted.

For more information on share the care visit www.southglos.gov.uk/sharethecare

And further details about the national campaign here www.shortbreaksnetwork.org.uk

CASE STUDY

Bradley, 13, has autism and Christine Bennett takes on the role of his short break carer one day a week in the school holidays and every other Saturday during school term. She has been doing this since Bradley was nine.

As well as Bradley, Christine also looks after another child with autism as well as being a nursery nurse in a special needs assessment nursery.

Together they enjoy activities such as going for a walk in the many beautiful parks in South Gloucestershire or taking trips to Weston-Super-Mare and Blaise Castle. Christine said: “It gives Bradley’s family a break and they can have peace of mind knowing that he’s with me and therefore they can think about other things they want to do for the day and spend more time with other family members.”

If you think you could become a carer we would like to hear from you. You will receive an allowance of up to £90 for a 24 hour period with full training and support provided by our team of short break social workers.

For an informal discussion please call the family placement team on 01454 866423 for further details.