Shared care network

A DVD in 10 languages to raise awareness of the need for short break carers from Black and minority ethnic communities. To inform potential carers about the rewards and challenges involved in providing short breaks to disabled children. To increase the take up of short break services by the families of disabled children of Black and minority ethnic communities. With English version narrated by Linford Christie.

A £1.54 million grant will enable another 70 children in Wales to access short breaks. However, there are 460 children in Wales still waiting for short breaks – and many more who are not even on a waiting list. This money is a good starting point and it is hoped a down payment for the future development of short break services in Wales. More carers will be needed to meet the increased demand, and the DVD has come at the right time to inspire new short break carers.

Short films of short break carers providing short breaks to disabled children and young people are presented to highlight the rewards of becoming a short break carer. The films look at care in different settings, including: family-based short break carers; contract (fee paid) carers; sitters; outreach workers; and befrienders. The carers explain what they do, the support and training they receive and why they enjoy it.