Short Breaks Carers Scheme

All kinds of people can provide regular Short Breaks for disabled children.

Give a little time...

...Make a big difference!

What is the Short Break Carers Scheme?

The Scheme aims to link disabled children and their families with carers who can provide them with regular short breaks. These carers are volunteers, who receive an allowance.

The children who use the service may have a learning disability, physical disability, complex health care needs, or a sensory impairment.

The Scheme provides a vital support service to families of disabled children and benefits the children by enabling them to make new friends and enjoy new experiences

What are Short Breaks?

Short Breaks are regular periods of time that are offered to the disabled child, either in a carer's home or out in the community. This can be anything from a few hours a week to a few days a month. This gives the child the opportunity to make new friends and take part in a variety of activities within the local community such as going to the shops, the park or swimming.

Who are Short Break Carers?

Carers are people who look after disabled children regularly for short periods of time. They can come from a variety of backgrounds, and can be as young as 18 years-old. There is no upper age limit. They could be working, retired or unemployed; with or without children; single, or living with a partner.

They do not need any particular experience or qualifications, just commitment and enthusiasm for working with children and young people.

If you are interested in becoming a Short Break Carer, please contact the Scheme for more information.

Short Break Carers Scheme

Highwood Annexe, Fairwater Drive, Woodley, RG5 3RU

Tel: 0118 974 6890

Email: short.breaks@wokingham.gov.uk