CALLING ALL BUTTERFLY CARERS IN BRIGG

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.”