Meet Jackie, an Advanced Social Worker and our lead for Short Break Fostering. Jackie works closely with carers who provide essential support to disabled children and their families through a unique branch of the fostering service called Share the Care.
Short break fostering is all about creating joyful, enriching experiences for children while offering their families a much-needed short-break.
As Jackie explains, “What makes a great short break carer is someone who is open-minded, creative, and most of all, willing to have fun.”
These carers build meaningful relationships with young people and their families. They open doors to new opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
Profound impact of Short Break care
“Whether it’s trying a new activity, making friends within the carer’s family network, or—as one young person beautifully put it—’conquering his fears,’ the impact of short breaks is profound,” Jackie continues. “Families often share heart-warming stories of how these experiences have helped their children grow in confidence and joy.”
But the benefits extend beyond the children. Parents and siblings also gain valuable time to rest and recharge, knowing their loved one is in safe, trusted hands. Jackie highlights how long-term relationships often form between carers and families, creating a strong sense of trust and continuity.
Become a Short Break foster carer
We’re looking for a wide variety of people with experience of caring for disabled children and those with challenging behaviour.
If you’re considering becoming a short break carer, Jackie recommends speaking with friends or family for advice and encouragement. Attend aninformation evening or contact us directly for help and guidance.
Share the Care is a chance to make a real difference in a child’s life, to support families, and to be part of something truly rewarding. As Jackie says, “It’s a very positive experience for all, and we hear lots of great feedback from families and carers who say they get so much out of it.”
You can find out more by watching Jackie’s video below.
