If you feel you can make a difference to the lives of children who suffer from autism, Isle of Wight Council would like to hear from you.
Monday 9 March sees the launch of ‘Share the Care Week’, a national initiative run by the Shared Care Network (SCN).
Its aim to is recruit people who can become carers for children with autism. They are known as ‘Family Link’ carers and they look after a disabled child on a regular basis and can be anything from one evening a week to a weekend every month. This will allow the child and the family to have a break.
A national report which wil be launched during the week shows that regular short breaks help overcome some of the difficulties faced by children with autism and their families.
The “Breaking Down the Barriers” report, published by SCN, is based on a survey of families of children with autism who are linked to short break carers in their communities. The report shows that, not only do short breaks services help children with autism develop skills and make friends; they also help the rest of their families cope with the demands of caring for an autistic child.
If you would like to find out more details on becoming a Family Link carer, contact Matthew Penney at Isle of Wight Council’s Fostering Service on 01983 566011.
