Family Link

Family Link Scheme

Families for all children - family link in Solihull Do you have time, energy and a sense of humour? Could you offer shared care to a child with a disability?

The Family Link Scheme

The scheme offers children and young people with disabilities breaks away from home for short periods, up to a total of 28 days per year. These breaks are with 'Link Carers'. Link carers are ordinary people who live locally. Usually the carer is matched with one child. The child's family and the link carers are supported by social workers and arrange the breaks at times to suit everyone.

Who qualifies for the Family Link Scheme?

Parents who have a child with a disability.

Everyone needs a break from time to time, but for parents of a child with a disability this is more important. Everyday things like shopping, taking another child swimming or having an evening out can be more difficult or even impossible. A link carer can give a family time and space to recharge their batteries, whilst enabling the child to have a 'change of scene' and benefit from new experiences.

Who are Link families?

• People like you! - individuals, couples or families of all ages, cultures and backgrounds, who can offer care in their own home to a child with a disability.

How can I get involved?

If you want to know more please telephone 0800 073 0769.

What happens then?

• we arrange to visit you and your family, to tell you more about the scheme and help you decide if being a Link Carer would be right for you
• you will be offered training preparation and support
• you will receive an allowance to help cover the cost of having a child to stay.

What does the scheme offer?

Everyone can get a lot out of it.

The child

• has an opportunity to make new friends
• has the chance to widen their experiences by spending time away from home
• can feel secure having gradually built up a close relationship with their carers.

The child's family

• has the opportunity to spend time together and give time to other member of the family
• has time to enjoy a break - perhaps a weekend, a holiday or even a night out
• can rest assured that their child is being cared for by someone who is an approved carers and who can meet the needs of their child.

The link family

• can use some of their free time to help another family
• can help their own family to understand the special needs of others
• can make rewarding new friendships
• has a chance to expand their own horizons.

Contact Details

If you would like to know more, please contact us:

Family Link Scheme
Solihull MBC
Education and Children's Services
Jubilee House
655 Auckland Drive
Smiths Wood
Solihull
B36 0SN

Telephone: 0800 073 0769