Open evening to find short break hosts

South Lanarkshire Council is hosting an open evening in a bid to recruit people willing to offer ‘short breaks’ to children and young people with additional support needs.

Social work bosses are looking for families across East Kilbride and Avondale to offer respite for families.

The event will take place tomorrow in Hamilton’s Town House from 6.30pm to 8pm.

Sarie Young, a social worker based in the council’s family placement team, said: “Short breaks and respite care are beneficial to a range of children, including those on the autistic spectrum, children with physical or learning disabilities, communication difficulties or other complex health needs.

“The provision of familybased, overnight short breaks to a child or young person with additional needs enables them to have new experiences, to develop new relationships and sometimes to have a greater independence.

“Meanwhile, families have a regular opportunity to recharge their batteries.

“What’s even more rewarding is that carers look after the same child or children on a regular basis and have the opportunity to build strong – and often lifelong – relationships with the child.”

Short break carers from all walks of life and backgrounds are required.

Applications are welcome from single people, married couples, couples in a stable relationship and people from the LGBT community, as well as families with or without children.

Anyone over the age of 21 can work with the team to offer crucial respite care – all that is needed is a room in your home and the enthusiasm, skills and qualities necessary to give children and families some breathing space.

To register interest or find out more, contact 0303 123 1008 or email familyplacement@ southlanarkshire.gov.uk