More short break carers needed as demand for support grows in Cornwall

More carers are being sought in Cornwall to help provide vital short breaks for children and young people with disabilities as demand for the service continues to grow.

Cornwall Council's Family Based Short Break (FBSB) service, which has been supporting families for more than 20 years, is appealing for new carers to come forward and offer anything from a few hours of support to occasional weekend stays.

The service, which began by supporting just three children, has expanded significantly over the past two decades and now helps more than 40 children and young people across Cornwall.

Family Based Short Breaks give children with disabilities the opportunity to spend time in a different environment, make friends, try new experiences and build confidence. The breaks also provide parents and carers with valuable time to rest and recharge.

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With demand for the service continuing to grow, Cornwall Council says more carers are urgently needed to ensure families across the county can continue to access the support they need.

Councillor Hilary Frank, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, praised the contribution of existing carers and encouraged others to consider the role.

She said: "Family Based Short Break carers make a huge difference to children and young people with disabilities, as well as their families.

"By opening their homes and sharing their time, carers give young people opportunities to build confidence, enjoy new experiences and a change of scenery. At the same time, parents and carers get a valuable chance to rest and recharge.

"We are incredibly grateful to our existing carers. If you think you might be able to offer a child anything from a few hours to an occasional weekend, please get in touch. There is no obligation, and one of our team will be happy to tell you more about how the service works, the rates of pay, and the training and support you would receive."

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As part of the recruitment campaign, the council has shared the experiences of carers and parents who have benefited from the scheme, highlighting the positive impact short breaks can have on both young people and their families.

The council says people from all walks of life can apply to become carers, with current short break carers including fishermen, farmers, marketing executives and teachers.

Applicants can be single or in a relationship, have children of their own or not, and do not necessarily need previous experience of working with disabled children and young people. Those with an interest in supporting disabled children can receive the training needed to meet their needs.

According to the council, the most important qualities are a commitment to helping others and a desire to support young people to thrive.

Anyone interested in becoming a Family Based Short Break carer can contact the team on 01872 324533, email FamilyBasedShortBreaks@cornwall.gov.uk, or visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/shortbreaks for more information.