What happens if I apply to become a Carer?
The Scheme Co-ordinator or Social Worker will arrange to meet you to explain the Scheme in more detail and give you an application form. Once you have completed this, various checks will be undertaken. This includes police, health and probation checks, as well as personal references.
The Scheme will spend time getting to know you and your immediate family, and will compile a report with you. This is then presented to the Foster Panel, and if they are in agreement, you can be approved as a Short Break Carer.
How are Carers and families matched?
Many factors are taken into consideration, including your accommodation, where you live, what means of transport you have, the ages of your own children, your interests, and the amount of time you have to offer the Scheme. Your wishes and preferences will also be taken into account. All of this information helps to identify the child that would most benefit from your support. It is always tried to link you to a child who will fit in and get on with you and your family.
How much time will I have to offer?
The time you offer will depend on what you feel you can give!
Initially, introductory visits will be arranged with you, the child and their family. If you are all happy to continue, a short visit is then arranged to see how the child settles in, and these visits are gradually extended. The amount of time you can provide for the child is agreed with yourself, the Scheme, the child and their family, and their Social Worker.
Do I need any special skills?
No. Your experience and enjoyment of looking after children and being in their company is much more important.
You do need to have spare time, the willingness to commit to becoming a regular Carer for a disabled child, and the energy to provide Short Breaks to a child who may require a high level of support and supervision.
Training is given in order to help you prepare for the individual needs of the child you will be looking after. All Short Break Carers are supported by the Scheme Co-ordinator or a Social Worker.
How are the sessions organised?
Once you are linked to a child and their family, you will arrange the sessions between you. A formal placement agreement will be written so that everyone knows the amount of hours and sessions agreed each month.
How much will I be paid?
Carers are paid a small allowance each time they provide care to a child. This payment is to cover expenses. The allowance amount changes annually, and the Scheme can inform you of the current amount.
You will need to fill out a payment form and return this to the Scheme. A reimbursement payment is then made to your bank account.
Will I have to pay tax?
No. You do not need to declare on your tax form that you are providing Short Breaks via the Scheme.
How much support will I receive?
You will receive regular support from the Scheme, particularly when your link to a child is first arranged. You will have an annual review, where the package you provide will be looked at with the Scheme, to make sure everything is going well and you are happy. You will also be entitled to at least four sessions a year with your supervisor, where you have the opportunity to voice your views and get feedback from the Scheme. Your training and development will also be discussed and planned here.
Who arranges transport for the child?
Families usually provide transport to and from a Carer's home. If this is not possible, you may be able to offer transport and claim back expenses for this.
Am I insured in case of accident or damage to my property?
You must notify your own insurance company that you are providing Short Breaks to disabled children via the Scheme. If your insurance policy covers the contents of your home, then you should be covered.
Wokingham Borough Council has public liability insurance that will cover legal liability for injury, loss or damage to third parties. There is also personal accident and assault cover in place for Short Break Carers.
How do I get involved?
If you are interested in becoming a Short Break Carer, or finding out more information about the Scheme, contact the Scheme Co-ordinator or Social Worker on 0118 974 6890.
