Family Link is a Northampton County Council service providing ‘short breaks’ to disabled children by linking them with carers in the community. This gives the children a chance to make new friends and broaden their horizons, whilst allowing their parents some ‘time out’ or the chance to spend quality time with their other children.
Family Link is seeking to recruit more carers throughout Northamptonshire and will pay an allowance upon approval for giving up a small amount of your time to make a big difference.
Regardless of whether you work full or part time are young or older or have any direct experience we would love to hear from you as full training and ongoing support is provided.
If you are interested and would like further details please contact us using the details on the right. Alternatively information is available on the Shared Care Network's website (see Related Links below).
Your questions answered:
Q. What do family link carers do?
A. Family link carers involve disabled children in the everyday activities that are part of home life. You can go to the park, go shopping, watch a video or cook together.
Q. What if I don't have any experience of caring for children with disabilities?
A. Personal qualities are more important than your age, qualifications or experience. You receive training before and after becoming a carer and have your own worker who provides ongoing support.
Q. Are there any factors which would prevent me from becoming a carer?
A. Checks are carried out to help ensure the safety of the child but individual circumstances of potential carers are considered on their own merit.
Q. What about money?
A. We pay a small allowance to meet any expenses which arise from caring for a child.