Link Scheme Carers Help Families with Disabled Children

Autistic children face some of the longest waits for Link carers, according to Cambridgeshire Social Services.

A lack of understanding about the condition makes it difficult to recruit carers. Sandy Watkins, Practice Manager for Children's Disability Services said: "Some families have to wait two years because there aren't enough Link carers. I think autism is not very well understood, and so people are not comfortable with it. Children with autism can have impaired communication, so carers may not feel they are getting a lot back. However, a small amount of progress can be a huge thing for a child with autism."

The Parent's Story

Finding time for everyday things, like a trip to the supermarket used to be a struggle for Annie Jones.

All her time was spent caring for her two autistic sons, aged seven and five, who need constant supervision, as they have difficulty communicating and other behavioral problems. As a single Mum, Annie had to cope alone until a Link family stepped into help. They take care of her sons one weekend each month, which gives her time to catch up on everyday things which most people take for granted.

Annie said: "It is a brilliant scheme, and it has improved my life. It gives me a break, which I really need and it gives them a break from me. It is like having an extended family you can rely on."

The Carers Story

Making a child happy brings huge rewards for Susan, Link carer for a 16 year old autistic girl.

"Julie comes to my home to give her parents some time to themselves - it's really rewarding to see her so happy and comfortable with me. We have great fun together; she is very easy to please and loves swimming. She is quite lively so it can be hard work, but it's worth it."

Information about the Link Scheme

Children with a variety of disabilities are matched with suitable caring families who offer support to children of all ages. The care takes place in the carer's home and could be for a few hours, overnight, or for a regular weekend break.

No qualifications are needed and people from all walks of life can apply. Training and assessment are carried out, and carers receive a small tax-free allowance.

If you are interested in becoming a Link Carer of finding out more about the scheme, call Social Services on Free phone: 0800 052 0078

Cambridgeshire LINK SCHEME

Carers urgently needed in your village!

GIVE A LITTLE TIME - AND MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE

Have fun and make a real difference to the lives of disabled children and their families. Become a short break carer providing care in your home for a weekend each month, or a few hours, on a regular basis.

You could be working, retired or unemployed, with or without children, single or with a partner. You do not need any particular experience or qualifications as training, support and allowances are provided.

A shortage of carers is putting pressure on the parents of severely disabled or autistic children. It is round-the-clock responsibility - can you provide an opportunity for both family and child to have a regular break?

PHONE TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION

CONTACT: Free phone 0800 052 0078

or e-mail to: link.enquire@camcnty.gov.uk