Short breaks for disabled children
What is the disabled children’s short break carers scheme?
The disabled children’s short break carers scheme provides disabled children who are resident in the borough with short breaks (respite). These breaks are designed to provide parents, carers and siblings with a break from caring and at the same time provide the disabled child with positive experiences, giving them the opportunity to engage in new activities, make friends and have a good time with their carer.
Short Breaks for Disabled Children Statement (76kb Word)
The disabled children’s short break carers scheme offers three types of carer for families – Link carers, Befrienders and Sessional carers:
Link carers provide care based in their own homes (including overnight care) and are assessed under the Foster Care Regulations.
Befrienders also undertake an assessment, and offer care in the child’s home or local community.
Sessional carers are employees of the council and provide care in the child’s home or the local community. However, as employees they provide more hours and are linked to several children on a flexible basis.
The Disabled Children’s Short Break Carers Scheme is based in the Children’s Social Care division of Hammersmith & Fulham Council. The team currently consists of three full time social workers and the team manager.
Who can use the service?
The service is for disabled children from birth to eighteen years, who live in the borough of Hammersmith & Fulham. The children who use the service have a wide range of physical and learning disabilities and sensory impairments. Some of the children display challenging behaviour as a result of their disability.
How does the scheme work?
Each disabled child or young person is matched with one carer so that they get to know each other and develop a relationship.
When making this match we look at the skills and experience of the carer, at how much time they can offer and at the personal circumstances of the family requesting the service.
Link carers can care for a child in their own home and may offer overnight stays.
Befrienders & Sessional Carers can offer care in the family’s home or take the child out for the day and do a range of activities for example a trip to the park, the zoo, swimming, or to the cinema.
Link carers/Befrienders are paid an allowance of £7.32 per hour and may claim up to £15 per session to cover expenses such as travel, outings and meals. Sessional carers are paid £11.59 per hour.
Who can become a carer?
Carers are recruited from a range of backgrounds, to try and increase each child’s chance of getting a good match.
We welcome carers from all races, cultures and religions and of different ages. Carers can be married, living with a partner or single and may or may not have children of their own.
Link carers and Befrienders are assessed by the department. A social worker meets the prospective carer to look at his or her:
- child care experience and skills
- understanding of disability issues
- relationships & family situation
- Support networks
Link carers look after children in their own home and must therefore be assessed in line with national foster care regulations and the Children Act 1989. If they have a partner, he or she will also be assessed and any children living in the home will also be included. The home will also be checked to meet health and safety requirements and ensure there are suitable sleeping arrangements.
All carers have to undergo a number of checks (including police checks) to make sure they are suitable to work with children.
All carers receive ongoing training and support from the scheme.
How do I find out more?
If you are interested in finding out more please contact the Disabled Children’s Short Break Carers Scheme on – 020 8753 2311/2.
Page last updated: 25/11/2011
