Care career is rewarding
South Lanarkshire Council is shining a light on a rewarding career opportunity.
Becoming a short breaks carer with the council can be a fulfilling career, and the authority has highlighted the experience of Caroline Findlay.
Caroline initially entered caring as a volunteer with Convey Befriending which has been helping children, young people and families across Lanarkshire develop strong relationships through befriending and mentoring.
She said:“I used to volunteer once a week. Building a relationship with an individual child and taking them on weekly outings was a great start to what has now become my career.
“It was fantastic to see just how much a young person can benefit from even a small amount of friendship and support.”
Short breaks is a service for families who need planned breaks –this could be grandparents who are the main care givers for grandchildren, parents caring for children with additional support needs or young parents with no family support.
The help can be the key to keeping families together and preventing children needing care.
Caroline, who opted for the role within the short breaks services, said:“I was contacted by the short breaks team who
discussed my experience and why I was interested in taking on the role.
“I then attended online training to learn more about short breaks and I haven’t looked back since.
“Watching the children become confident at my house has been a real privilege. They bring an energy and life to my home as we explore new activities together.
“I also love getting out and about. Going on outings and trips and encouraging the children to pursue their interests and create memories and positive experiences that I hope will last them, and me, a lifetime.”
The council is looking for more people to add to the dedicated service.
Director of Health and Social Care, Soumen Sengupta, said:“Anyone who thinks they could support a family should get in touch with us.
“It doesn’t matter what your background is, if you have the warmth, time and commitment to care for a child and you’re the right person for the job, that’s what matters to us and the children and families you’ll be helping.”
Visit the council website to find out more.