Carers needed to help short break service

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Cornwall Council said the service supports more than 40 children and young people with disabilities

More carers are needed to help support disabled children and young people with short breaks, council bosses have said.

The Family Based Short Break service at Cornwall Council is searching for more people to look after children with complex conditions and give their families respite.

The service began 20 years ago by supporting three children and has grown to currently support more than 40 young people.

Councillor Hilary Frank, cabinet member for children, families and schools, said carers would be giving young people "opportunities to build confidence, enjoy new experiences and a change of scenery".

"If you think you might be able to offer a child anything from a few hours to an occasional weekend, please get in touch," Frank said.

She said people with different work experience could apply if they had an interest in working with children with disabilities as training was available.

"The main requirement is a passion for supporting the community and helping young people to thrive," Frank added.

People who want to know more about helping the service have been advised to visit the council's website.

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