Disabled children and their families in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot are urging people to come forward and make a difference.
A Swansea mum whose son receives short breaks is urging more people to make a big difference to disabled children and their families too.
Gina’s 18-year-old son Ross, from Cockett, has Down’s syndrome and has received short breaks with Action For Children for 17 years.
She is backing their appeal this week as part of a national campaign called Share the Care Week which aims to recruit more short break carers.
Swansea Council funds and works in partnership with Action for Children on the short break scheme which enables parents to get a vital break from caring while offering new opportunities to disabled children.
Short breaks are the support service most commonly requested by families of disabled children.
They offer regular opportunities for disabled children from Swansea and Neath Port Talbot to enjoy spending time with a short break carer and doing things that other non disabled children take for granted.
At the same time their families take a break from the demands of caring.
Gina said: “We desperately need more people to come forward as short break carers and support a disabled child for just a few hours a week.
“It gives the child a different outlook on life and gives the parents a break. For us it has been a lifeline.
“It has given us time to be with our other two sons as the situation also impacts on them, and for Ross it has broaden his horizons by giving him an extended family and extra opportunities, – for example he has starred in a film to publicise the scheme.”
Nationally, research suggests that whilst 10,000 disabled children and families are currently receiving short breaks another 10,000 could benefit if enough carers could be recruited.
Linda who provides short breaks for Ross and his family said: “We would urge more people to take on this rewarding opportunity and become a short break carer to make a BIG difference to the lives of disabled children and their families.”
The Project Manager of Action For Children Mo Oliver said: “It does make a big difference and gives children a chance to make friends and have new experiences which other children do all the time.
“It is also a safe way for parents to have a break, knowing their children are with thoroughly checked and assessed carers.
“Being a short break carer can be such a rewarding experience and the carers enjoy the time they spend with the children.
“All kinds of people have become a carer with Action for Children. ”
Anyone who would like to find out more can call Action For Children on 01792 294005 or 01639 888678 or visit www.actionforchildren.org.uk
