How to be a short breaks carer

If you want to make a difference in the lives of disabled children and young people, you may consider being a short breaks carer. You:

must be willing to learn about the range of disabilities and the different needs of disabled children and be prepared to work with the child's family and professionals involved with the child's care
do not need experience - as an approved short breaks carer, you will receive training, support from a social worker and specialist advice as needed
will undergo a thorough vetting process - as part of the assessment process we will undertake a number of checks, including police and local authority checks
may come from a variety of backgrounds - we value people from many different backgrounds and with different life experiences
can be an adult of any ages - there is no upper age limit although you must have the energy and patience to help care for energetic children and young people

Deciding how you can help

Short breaks fits into your lifestyle and availability, although you should be prepared to make a commitment to helping and be prepared to be flexible based on the disabled child's needs.

The amount of time you spend on short breaks depends on how much time you want to give. Even one day or one weekend a month can make a big difference for a disabled child and their family. We will always try to match you with a child and family whose needs can be met by the time you have available.

There are many different needs and various support you can give to disabled children and their families. If you have a spare room, you may consider overnight care. Otherwise you can help with day care or consider being a volunteer or befriender working in the community as a short breaks carer.

You need to consider:

if you have the potential to learn about the range of disabilities and different needs of disabled children and young people
if you work well as a team member, working with the disabled child or young person, their family and the professionals involved with their care
how much time you have available
whether you want to help care for a disabled child or young person in your home or in the community

How to be a short breaks carer

Deciding how you can help

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