Barnardo’s calls for holiday volunteers

7:46am Sunday 18th May 2008

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Families and individuals across Preston, South Ribble, Chorley and West Lancashire are being asked to Give a little time and make a big difference' to local disabled children and their families.

Barnardo's Family Link service - based at the charity's Include Me 2 project at Lostock Hall - is marking Foster Care Fortnight with an appeal to locals to offer short breaks to disabled children and give their parents a regular break from caring.

About 30 local disabled children are currently benefiting from the scheme, but organisers say many more are missing out because of a lack of volunteers.

Scheme worker Hilary Thornton said: "Short breaks are not one-off holidays, but are regular opportunities for families with disabled children to take a break from the demands of caring.

"At the same time their disabled child enjoys spending time with a short break carer and doing things other non-disabled children take for granted.

"We currently have 30 disabled children enjoying short breaks, but we have at least 12 children on the waiting list, and even more disabled children could benefit if more carers came forward.

"A short break carer could provide them with fun and new experiences.

"We think more people would come forward if they knew about the need. Short breaks benefit everyone - disabled children, their families, and their carers - and it's a great scheme to get involved with if you've considered fostering, but couldn't make that level of commitment."

Penwortham mum Karen Rolston is backing the recruitment campaign.

Her daughter Jessica, 13, who has severe learning disabilities, is linked to short break carers Sue and Jim Hill who she visits one weekend per month.

Karen said: "Caring for a disabled child can take up a lot of my time - which means I have less time to spend with Jessica's five brothers.

"When Jessica is with her Family Link carers, I am able to spend more time with her brothers - which means all of my children are happier."

Hilary explained: "There is no such thing as a typical short break carer, just people who enjoy being with children, and would welcome the opportunity to help a disabled child realise their potential."

Short breaks can range from a few hours a week to overnight stays once a month.

Training and support are provided, plus an allowance.

To find out more call Hilary or Janet McLaughlin at Barnardo's Family Link service on 01772 629470.