Issues - Short Breaks/Time Out

Everyone needs a break; families with children who have disabilities equally so, if not more. The pressures and strains of looking after and caring for a child with a disability can be phenomenal and many parents' health have been adversely affected by the stresses involved.
Although some parents do prefer a complete break from their child, many parents would prefer just a couple of hours off to go shopping, go out for the evening, or perhaps just to spend time with the rest of the family.
Some parents want a break away with their disabled child while others want the other brothers and sisters to have a break. Some want time to spend with the siblings; again flexibility is the key. There are those who want separate specialist facilities while some parents want totally inclusive provision, where disabled children are included in mainstream events eg playgroups, after-school clubs, youth clubs etc.
Although not all services are available in each of the Trusts, below are examples of some that are available:

Overnight stays in residential homes/settings eg "The Cottages", "Horizon House"

Domiciliary care in the family home

Specialist childminding service

Host families – breaks provided by other families

Inclusive projects with young people (eg Cedar Foundation)

Playgroups, after schools, summer schemes, clubs (specialist and inclusive).

More information is available from social workers.

Family Information Group is grateful to Derry City Council Community Services for supporting this project.