Can you give them a break?

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

The event will take place in Hamilton Town House tomorrow (Thursday) from 6.30pm to 8pm and welcomes everyone who wants to find out more about the rewards to be had from supporting youngsters with a range of additional needs.

Sarie Young, social worker based in the family placement team, explained: “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 family-based, 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.

Those coming along to the open evening will have the chance to pick up further information, chat with current carers and speak to members of the family placement team.

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