Type of service: Respite and short breaks

The scheme provides short breaks for disabled children and young people. A Short Break carer can look after a child for a few hours, whole days, weekends or full weeks. These breaks can be arranged in either the carer's or the child's home. Carers are carefully matched with children and the aim is to build up a long term relationship. Disabled children and their families often have to wait to be matched with a carer. The scheme also provides Support Buddies for disabled children and young people. Buddies provide day care, often outside the home and can include activities such as swimming, visits to the zoo and visits to the cinema. Referrals to the service can be made through Social Services.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Specialisms: Generic

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour, Learning disability