Wokingham

On Wednesday (May 6), 10 volunteers, who between them have dedicated 68 and a half years of their lives to Wokingham Borough Council’s short break scheme, will be thanked for their hard work and commitment by the Mayor Cllr Pauline Helliar-Symons.

Wokingham Borough Council runs a short break carers scheme and needs carers to look after disabled children and young people for regular day visits, overnight stays or even a few days a month.

Wokingham Mayor Cllr Pauline Helliar-Symons said: “These short break carers have made a real difference to the lives of so many families of disabled children over the years. Not only do they give parents a break from caring, they give disabled children the chance to take part in activities that most non-disabled children take for granted. I am delighted to host this breakfast event in their honour.”

The Wokingham borough council currently has 13 short break carers. However, it still needs more volunteers to come forward as there is a real need for them to support families of disabled children in the borough. Applications are welcome from people of all backgrounds. Applicants could be working, retired or unemployed, with or without children, single or with a partner. Once application forms are completed a number of checks are carried out including police, health and probation. All carers are assessed and approved by the council before they are matched with a child.

They will receive training, support from the borough’s short break carers’ scheme and an allowance to cover costs.

Anyone interested in becoming a short break carer, should contact the council by calling (0118) 974 6999 or (0118) 974 6218 or email short.breaks@wokingham.gov.uk

Wokingham Borough Council