Caring breaks

CARING BREAKS LTD

• A respite service for carers of adults with learning disabilities

- making a real difference to the lives of carers

CARING BREAKS INTRODUCTION

• Registered Charity – since 2000• Research and Consultation with Family Carers• Carers/Business/Statutory Partnership• Service located in the context of Government

Policy and Research• Independently Evaluated• Found to be delivering excellent outcomes for

carers and adults with learning disabilities

Carer Involvement

• Dedicated carer sub group• Actively involved in managing the service• Establishing company standards• Monitoring and reviewing policies

VISION FOR THE SERVICE• To provide regular “conscience free” respite

breaks for carers enabling them to pursue lifestyles of their choice.

• To work in partnership with carers and adults with learning disabilities to develop social activities in the local community.

Criteria for Referral to Caring Breaks

Priority is given to:

• Older carers• Those coping alone• Those who care for more than one person• Those who do not use any other services

Beneficiaries - Recognising and meeting the needs of family carers

• Right to a life• Peace of mind• Flexible and responsive support• Time to pursue their own interests• Equal partners – nature of respite determined

by carer and adult with learning disability• Carers are actively involved in managing the

service

• Regular respite breaks• Safe, reliable and person centred service• Offer a range of activities that encourage community

participation

Beneficiaries - Recognising and meeting the needs of adults with

learning disabilities

• Social and personal development• Reduce social isolation• A variety of social, recreational and

environmental activities• Short breaks• Raise the profile of people with learning

disabilities in the community

Activities for Adults with Learning Disabilities

• Variety of fun leisure activities

• Promoting choice

• Weekend break activities

• Environmental activities

RACHEL’S STORY

Project located in the context of policy and research

• National Strategy for Carers 1999

• Valuing Carers 2001

• Equal Lives Report (Bamford) 2005

• Caring for Carers NI Strategy 2006

• Standards for Carers Support 2008