8:00am Friday 29th March 2013
MORE families are needed to help disabled children and young people take a break.
Short breaks provide opportunities for disabled children and young people to temporarily spend some time away from parents or carers.
They include day, evening, overnight or weekend activities and provide an essential opportunity for parents and carers to have a break and allow disabled children and young people to broaden their experiences of places, people and activities.
Councillor Alison Bacon, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services said: “We have a real need for more Short Break carers in St Helens, who can help disabled children take part in community activities and provide a well deserved break from the demands of caring for their families.”
St Helens Council says being a Short Break carer can be a really rewarding and enjoyable role that you could choose to do on a regular basis, over some weekends or just during the school holidays.
Carers can come from a wide range of ages and backgrounds and share a love of children and a desire to help them realise their potential.
The children and young people who are awaiting a Short Break may have long lasting or permanent disabilities. These may be learning or physical, sensory or developmental or a diagnosed medical condition.
Short Breaks Carers receive all necessary equipment, as well as specialist training, intensive, ongoing guidance and financial support.
If you could spare some time and are interested in becoming a Short Break carer, please call us on 01744 676789, email shortbreaks@sthelens.gov.uk or visit sthelens.gov.uk/shortbreaks.
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