Respite Carers
Information about becoming a Respite Carer
How do I go about becoming a Respite Carer?
Have a chat with one of our friendly workers they will talk to you about what respite carers do and if you are interested one of them will visit you. All of our Respite Carers go through an assessment procedure and once they have been approved they receive ongoing support and training from Stepdown.
What do Respite Carers do?
Respite Carers enjoy caring for children and young people. They need a spare room for them to stay in for at least one or two days a month. Most of our children and young people are between 12 and 21 years old. You can choose which age suits your family best.
Why do children and young people need Respite Care?
Most of our children and young people are [or have been] in care and are living in a residential unit. They would benefit from an enjoyable family experience and a return to local communities.
What kind of support do children and young people need?
Our children and young people would benefit from a period away from their residential unit where they can experience a happy family atmosphere; have the opportunity to make positive relationships; go on family outings and use local community resources like any other child or young person.
What kind of people are Respite Carers?
Respite Carers come from a variety of backgrounds. They can be married or single, working or retired, childless or have children still living at home. We need a variety of Carers in order to meet our children and young people’s individual needs.
Do I get to choose the children and young person who will live in my home?
Stepdown will work closely with you, children and young people to make sure that you are carefully ‘matched’ with each other. So we will know from you what type of child or young person you would be happy to help support. After the matching process there is a period of induction where you can get to know each other to make sure everyone is happy before they go for respite with you.
Do I need qualifications and do I get paid?
You don’t need any formal qualifications and we will provide you with any training you need. You do however need an interest in the welfare of children and young people. You will receive a generous allowance for each child and young person.
Interested?
Contact Stepdown by:
Telephone: 0141 762 4523
Or
E-mail: Liz.Rae@stepdown.org.uk
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