North Lincolnshire
Council’s fostering team is currently searching for potential Butterfly carers
who can offer short break care to a child with a disability at weekends or
mid-week.
Butterfly carers give
families of disabled children a much needed break and offer ‘time out’ for
parents/carers.
Butterfly carers may
already have existing or transferable skills however this is not a requirement
as full training will be given.
Children are
specifically matched to carers based on the child’s individual needs and the
dates for care are agreed on a pre-arranged regular basis. This allows children
to have a short break with a trained carer who works closely with their birth
family.
An excellent support
and training package is in place for the right person. This
includes:-
- Maintenance allowance to cover the cost of caring for the child
- Specialist-based fee to reflect the complex needs of the child you care for
- Allowances for birthdays, holidays and religious festivals.
- Essential setting up equipment, e.g. beds, cots, car seats
- Training to meet the needs of children with a disability or specific health needs
Annemarie Carlberg,
Service Manager, Fostering Services at North Lincolnshire Council,
said: “Butterfly carers
enable parents to gain some vital time to recharge their batteries, and enable
other children in the family to attend activities that otherwise would not be
possible. Carers receive the same high level of support as all North
Lincolnshire foster carers – financial, training and social work
support.
“If you know someone or you yourself feel you could
become a Butterfly carer, please get in touch on 01724 297024 or visit our
website, www.northlincs.gov.uk/fostering.”
