Become a short-break carer for a child with disabilities

We are looking for people who can offer occasional day-care or overnight care for children with disabilities.

You’ll be helping to give children the chance to develop new friendships and enjoy new experiences. You’ll also be giving their parents a break – time to relax or spend with friends.

Being a short break carer does not require a lot of time. Care can range from an hour or two, to a week or more, depending on the needs agreed between everyone involved. Sessions usually take place at weekends, during school holidays or after school.

The children

Children on this scheme are under 19 and have long lasting or permanent disabilities. These may be learning or physical, sensory or developmental or a diagnosed medical condition.

Matching you with a child

Carers are individually matched to children according to circumstances and needs. Many factors are taken into consideration when we match you with a child and their family. Lifestyle, routines, racial, cultural and religious issues are all taken into account.

We will ask for references and make checks with the police, health and local authorities. We then ask for you to be approved as a foster carer by the Fostering Panel for East Sussex County Council.

We also ask children and parents to let us know what kinds of activities the child enjoys, their daily routine, likes and dislikes and any special diets.

Introductions are made gradually, to give everyone the chance to get to know each other, and provide the opportunity to withdraw from the arrangement if needed. We regularly review the situation to make sure everyone involved is happy.

What training and support will I get?

We offer you full assessment, training and individual support, and 'out of hours’ telephone advice and support with your supervising social worker.

We pay you an allowance for the time you spend caring for the child. These payments are designed to cover the full cost of caring for the foster child. You will be told more about the allowance available to you during the assessment process.

Who we are looking for

Carers can be either men and women, single parents, couples and people from all ethnic backgrounds. Everyone must have a genuine desire to share the care of a child with special needs. Although experience of children with disabilities is useful, it is not essential. You must be willing to learn about the issues involved.

For more information

Please contact the Children’s Disability Short Break and Fostering Service.