COUNCIL LAUNCHES LOCAL 'SHARED CARE' CAMPAIGN
A local campaign to find families who can provide regular short breaks for disabled children began on Monday (19 March).
The three week campaign ties in with the National Share the Care Week, which is encouraging people to 'Give a little time, make a big difference'.
Cumbria County Council is looking for people across the county who would like to take part in the scheme. The short break can be anything from every other Saturday night to just one weekend per month. The breaks give disabled children new experiences and new friends, while their families get respite from full time caring. Carers can have great fun with the children, along with the satisfaction of knowing how much they are helping.
The main aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of the scheme and to recruit new carers. Many people like the idea of fostering but feel they cannot commit to looking after a child or children full time. Shared Care offers an alternative that is less of a commitment.
Gill Bowen has been looking after children with disabilities as part of the scheme for two years. She received training which included a foster carer's course followed by interviews at home with a family placement officer. Gill says:
"I got into this by chance; I was talking to someone who works in a respite care home when I was out walking one day and it took off from there.
"I'm a physiotherapist and had stopped working - I had always enjoyed working with children and felt that I could use my expertise to look after children who need this particular type of help.
"I really enjoy having the children to stay. I arrange with the parents the dates and times of visits to suit us all. I have contact with physios and occupational therapists who have given me invaluable help. I have been able to to go into the children's nursery school or school to learn how to continue their education - in that way we are all working together, because continuity of care is really important."
County Councillor Philip Chappelhow, Cabinet spokesperson for Children's Services, says:
"This scheme is a very important one.
"In Cumbria there are at least a dozen families looking to link up with someone who can provide short term care for their child. The children are of all ages and have a range of disabilities.
"Carers don't need any special qualifications or experience - they are simply ordinary people who enjoy the company of children, are keen to help others and have some spare time to give.
"Our shared carers come from all kinds of backgrounds, single or couples. This year we are hoping particularly to recruit older people, who still have a lot to offer.
" All you need is the energy, commitment and desire to care for a disabled child in your home."
For anyone who becomes part of the scheme, training, support and encouragement are always available from the county council's Children's Services and from the child's parents themselves.
The local campaign will run for three weeks and includes radio and newspaper advertising.
Anyone wanting to know more about being a carer for Cumbria Shared Care can contact their local Fostering Team Office on:
Barrow 01229 894862
Carlisle 01228 607078
Kendal 01539 773312
Workington 01900 325356
ENDS
For further information, or if you would like to interview Gill Bowen, contact Alison Lister, media team, on 01228 606335