Caregiving for a child with complex special needs is a challenging job. From time to time, parents and carers simply need a well-earned break to regroup and recharge. Respite care for children with disabilities can provide that vital timeout for carers and their children.
Here, we discuss the benefits of respite care, especially for children with special educational needs and disability (SEND).
Definition of respite care
Respite care gives temporary relief to a primary caregiver by way of a much-needed break from the challenges of caring for a child or young person with special educational needs and disability (SEND). Respite care enables you to take some well-deserved time out to look after yourself, while someone else takes care of your child for a short period. This can help to relieve stress, recharge your batteries, and restore some balance to your life.
Benefits of respite care for children
The other huge benefit of respite care is that a short break away in a new and stimulating environment can be hugely beneficial to your child. Respite care for children provides a change of scene and a wealth of new experiences that are incredibly important for a child or young person’s health and wellbeing. So you can take a much-needed timeout, safe in the knowledge that your child is fully supported by expert caregivers.
Respite care for children with disabilities
Respite care empowers children and young people with complex learning disabilities and additional communication needs to expand their own horizons and build up their independence. Seashell provides respite care and short breaks for disabled children and young people from four to 25 years old with complex learning disabilities. These services can be accessed both by students of our Royal School or Royal College Manchester and non-students alike.
Our facilities include two short break homes; one for younger children up to the age of 19 and another for young adults up to 25 years old. These fully adapted homes accommodate a maximum of four people, with an individual bedroom, a personalised care plan and shared communal living spaces. We can provide respite care for anywhere between one or two nights a week to longer stays, depending on your specific needs.
Our highly-trained staff are on hand at all times to provide all the care and attention your child needs. From a wide range of recreational activities, like arts and crafts, cooking and swimming to practical offsite experiences, such as visiting the shops or the cinema, we can provide a huge range of enriching experiences. Our sensory rooms also provides a soothing and relaxing environment for your child to enjoy at any time.
Contact Seashell Trust today
For more information about Seashell and the work we do, please get in touch on 0161 610 0100 or email info@seashelltrust.org.uk. You can make a difference today by making a donation to Seashell. With your support, you are helping to change the lives of the children and young people we care for. Thank you!