What is The Short Breaks for Carers Service? 

• Part of Sandwell Adult and Community Services
• The Service works to the National Strategy for Carers
• The aim is to provide a quality service to meet the needs of carers
• The Service offers information, support and guidance combined with a “short respite break” from the day to day caring responsibilities
• We provide a service for "carers of adults with physical dissabilities/sensory impairments - ages 18-65. There is no age restriction on the carer"

What is a short break from caring?

• The Short Breaks for Carers team consists of male and female personal development workers A person-centred, culturally aware service is provided with the aim of promoting social integration.
• The Personal development team support the person being cared for to engage in everyday activities chosen by the individual
• The service can be on a fortnightly, weekly or occasional basis to meet the needs of the carer and the individual.

What support is available for carers?

• The Short Breaks for carers service arrange regular carers meetings to provide information, advice and support.
• Regular, ongoing contact- phone calls, correspondence, and a quarterly newsletter produced by staff and clients.
• The service acts as a link between carers and service providers
• Emotional support provided on an ongoing basis

What are the costs involved?

There is NO CHARGE for the service itself.
The only expenses are for travel fares, lunches if eating out and the activity chosen by the person who is being cared for.

Accessing the service 

Referrals and enquiries can be made by a social worker, G.P, district nurse or other health professional.

A fact sheet about the short breaks service for people with learning disabilities and their carers can be downloaded here.

The Short Breaks for Carers team can also be contacted directly.

Contact Details:

The Short Breaks For Carers Service

Stoney Lane Daycentre,

Summer Street,

West Bromwich,

B71 4JA

Telephone: 0121 553 0067

Fax: 0121 525 9202