Carers needed for children with learning disabilities

A FAMILY-CENTRED, short-term care scheme coordinated by the Brothers of Charity Services and funded by the Health Service Executive (HSE) is again looking for Waterford families to accommodate children with intellectual disabilities for short periods of time.

Launched in 2002, ‘Homeshare’ aims to provide respite breaks for families of children from the Waterford community care area with intellectual disabilities, and create an enjoyable break for the child in a homely atmosphere.

Developed in recognition of the extra demands placed on parents caring for a child with greater dependency needs, the scheme also provides host families with a unique insight to the challenges facing children with disabilities and their families.

Host carers need no formal qualifications and come from all walks of life, the key criteria being commitment, time and willingness to support a child with an intellectual disability in their own home.

After an assessment process that includes Garda clearance, HSE checks, references and medical reports, host carers receive preparatory training.

Those interested in becoming a host carer are invited to contact the Homeshare Coordinator, Brothers of Charity Services, Child & Family Centre, Lisduggan Lodge, Waterford by telephone on [phone] or fax [phone].