Fishermen, farmers, teachers: Cornwall’s call for carers

A fisherman, a farmer, a marketing executive and a teacher have almost nothing in common, except one thing. All four are already opening their homes to disabled children and young people across Cornwall, for anything from an afternoon to a full weekend. Now the council wants more people like them to come forward, because demand for the scheme has never been higher.

A service that started with three children

Cornwall Council’s Family Based Short Break (FBSB) service began more than 20 years ago, supporting just three children. It has grown steadily since, and now supports more than 40 children and young people with disabilities across the county’s communities. That growth has brought its own problem. The service is now in such high demand that more carers are needed to give young people with complex needs a break, whether that’s a single afternoon or an occasional weekend away.

What the carers actually offer

Family Based Short Breaks give parents and carers much needed rest, while giving their children the chance to experience new surroundings, build friendships and gain confidence away from home. It’s a two-way arrangement built on a change of scenery rather than anything clinical or formal.

As part of the recruitment drive, the council spoke to two carers and two parents about their own experiences. Their stories are on video:

• Kirsten’s story
• Chris’s story
• Mel’s story
• Lisa’s story

Cllr Hilary Frank, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, said carers make a huge difference simply by sharing their time. “By opening their homes and sharing their time, carers give young people opportunities to build confidence, enjoy new experiences and a change of scenery. At the same time, parents and carers get a valuable chance to rest and recharge.”

Who can apply

There’s no set profile for a short break carer. Current carers’ jobs range from fishermen and farmers to marketing executives and teachers, and applicants can be single or in a relationship, with children of their own or without. Some have worked with disabled children and young people before, others simply have an interest and are open to the training that comes with it. The one constant the council is looking for is a passion for supporting the community and helping young people thrive.

Hilary Frank added: “We are incredibly grateful to our existing carers. If you think you might be able to offer a child anything from a few hours to an occasional weekend, please get in touch. There is no obligation, and one of our team will be happy to tell you more about how the service works, the rates of pay, and the training and support you would receive.”

How to get involved

Anyone interested can call 01872 324533, email [email protected], or visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/shortbreaks to find out more, with no obligation to sign up on first contact.

📷Family, children and nature with a girl, mother and father in a park for fun or adventure together. Kids, happy and love with a man, woman and daughter outdoor in a garden during summer vacation.