Those who are assessed as having special needs, or have a disability or a long-term illness, and their carers if they have one, are eligible for an assessment for short breaks.
This applies to people in the following groups:
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older people
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older people who have dementia
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people who have physical disabilities
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people who have a learning disability
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people who have mental health difficulties
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people with drug and alcohol problems
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people who have AIDS or HIV
Some specific examples of how the Short Breaks Bureau can facilitate the above groups include:
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providing a single scheduled short break or respite where the carer or person who is cared for is experiencing heightened stress or ill health and the care relationship is breaking down.
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emergency respite could be provided where the person who is cared for is at risk because the carer at that current time is unable through crisis, stress or ill health, to care for this person.
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people who have been assessed as having a special need and finances are limited (e.g. they are in receipt of benefits only) could be provided with a short break.
For more information please contact Margaret Petherbridge or June Scott using the details shown.
Alternatively, you can speak to the Community Care Team at your local social work office|.