What is short break care?
Short Break Care is a type of fostering that provides planned, regular support for children and young people with disabilities. Instead of living with foster carers full-time, children stay with a Short Break Carer for agreed periods such as weekends, school holidays, or occasional overnight stays throughout the year.
This gives children the opportunity to enjoy new experiences, build relationships, and spend time in a safe, welcoming environment, while also providing families with valuable support and time to recharge.
How does short break care work?
Short Break Carers work closely with children, their families, and other professionals to provide consistent and positive care. Visits are planned in advance and often follow a regular routine, helping children feel comfortable and secure while building a trusting relationship with their carer.
For families caring for children with disabilities, having reliable support can make a huge difference. Short Break Care helps families continue caring for their child at home while having additional support when they need it.
Why is short break care important?
Caring for a child with additional needs can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also bring challenges. Short Break Care provides:
- Time for parents and carers to rest and focus on their own wellbeing.
- Opportunities for children to try new activities and develop confidence.
- A chance for children to build independence and social skills.
- Additional support that helps strengthen families and relationships.
Who can become a short break carer?
Short Break Care can be a fantastic opportunity for people who want to make a difference in a child’s life while fitting fostering around their existing commitments.
It can be particularly rewarding for people who already have experience or knowledge of caring for children with disabilities and are looking for a role that allows them to continue using those skills alongside their current work, family life, or other responsibilities.
Successful Short Breaks Carer are often:
- Patient, understanding, and compassionate.
- Reliable and flexible.
- Confident supporting children with additional needs.
- Able to work alongside families and professionals as part of a wider support network.
Training and support for carer
You do not need to have been a foster carer before to provide Short Break Care. Foster for East Midlands provides training, guidance, and ongoing support to help carers feel prepared and confident in their role.
Carers receive support from a dedicated team, access to learning opportunities, and ongoing advice whenever they need it.
Making a difference
Short Break Carers play an important role in helping children with disabilities experience new opportunities while supporting their families. By offering regular care, encouragement, and a safe place to stay, carers become a valued part of a child’s support network.
For people with experience caring for children with disabilities, Short Break Care can be a meaningful way to use those skills while working alongside fostering and making a lasting difference.
For more information about becoming a short break support carer, visit Foster for East Midlands – Short Break Support.