Make a difference to a disabled child
by Hammersmith and Fulham Press Office
10/11/2008
Hammersmith and Fulham Shared Care Scheme recruits and links short breaks carers to disabled children and their parents, giving parents some time to re-charge their batteries and children the opportunity to make new friends and try out new experiences. If you have some time to spend, then you may be interested in volunteering.
Carers vary in age and come from a wide variety of backgrounds, but what they have in common is experience with children and a willingness to learn.
“What is important is that carers can make a regular commitment to a child and their family”, according to April Esteras, team manager. “This can be for a morning or afternoon on a Saturday or Sunday, at least twice a month. Some children may stay overnight with their carer, once they get to know them well. We work very hard to make sure we get the right match so that it is a fun experience for all concerned.”
Carers have to go through an assessment process and receive training to meet the needs of the particular child they are looking after. They will receive ongoing support from a worker from the team.
Cllr Antony Lillis, Hammersmith & Fulham’s Cabinet Member for Community and Children’s Services, said: “Caring for a disabled child can be very rewarding experience and I would like to urge prospective carers to contact our Shared Care Scheme.”
Carers also receive an expenses payment which depends on how long they are looking the child as well as an activity allowance to cover costs of entrance fees to the cinema, swimming pool etc.
If you would like to find out more about becoming a carer contact:
Sorcha Lawson tel 020 8753 2311 or email at: shared.care@lbhf.gov.uk
