We sometimes need a break from looking after our children. For parents that are disabled, in ill-health or having family difficulties that time off is very important.
Could you help by becoming a Respite Carer and offering a child a short break in your home?
Open Days
If you have a spare room, an interest in helping children and you live in or near Glasgow, please come to one of our open days at 32 Albion Street, Glasgow G1 1LH on:
Tuesday 2nd September between 5pm - 7pm
or
Saturday 6th September between 10am and 2pm
For more information on Respite Care, please read the Frequently Asked Questions below:
Q. How do I go about becoming a Respite Carer?
A. Freephone 0800 027 7954 for a chat with one of our friendly Social Workers. All of our Respite Carers go through an assessment procedure and once they have been approved they receive ongoing support from the Respite Team.
Q. What do Respite Carers do?
A. Our Respite Carers welcome a child into their homes for a planned short break.
Q. Why do children need Respite Care?
A. For a range of reasons. These could include having parents who are receiving support in attempting to overcome substance or alcohol misuse, parental illness or ill-health, a family or parent coping with difficult circumstances such as bereavement or separation, or simply first-time parents who need support in caring for their child. Respite Care gives parents a break to recharge their batteries.
Q. What kind of home would I need to have?
A. You would need a spare room that is suitable for children. You can specify what age of child you would like to care for, for example a toddler or an 8 - 12 year old. If you have children of your own still living at home then their preferences will also be taken into consideration.
Q. When would the child come and how often?
A. This is dependant on the needs of the child and your own commitments. It could be an overnight stay once a week, or a weekend every three weeks. Respite care can take various forms and it is our aim to provide a range of alternatives to meet different needs.
Q. How much time will I have to give?
A. Again, this is flexible to take account of your own commitments. Some of our carers look after several children but others may work full time and look after one child occasionally.
Q. How long would I look after a child for?
A. Ideally until the child's family situation stabilised and his or her parents are able to cope with full time parenting without support. Sadly sometimes this does not happen and Respite Care for a particular child is no longer needed as he or she is taken into full time Foster Care. Respite Care placements can vary from a few weeks to several years.
Q. Do I need qualifications and do I get paid?
A. You need an interest in caring for children but no formal qualifications. You will receive an allowance for each child. Currently this £27 per night. For most carers the main reward is knowing that they are helping a child in difficulty.
Smoke Free Care Placements
More information is available on how Glasgow City Council are actively working towards ensuring a positive, smoke free environment is provided for all looked after and accommodated children and young people in Glasgow.