take a Break - take two!

24th July 2012 from Family Fund

The ‘take a Break’ scheme for families raising disabled children in Scotland has re-opened thanks to confirmation of further funding from the Scottish Government.

The Family Fund administered the programme which first launched in November 2011 to allow families of disabled children and young people in Scotland to apply for a grant towards a family break.  Now a further £700,000 has been allocated to continue the hugely successful scheme throughout 2012/13, applications open on 30th July 2012.

It helped over 1,100 families across Scotland with between £200-500 towards a well-needed break from November 2011 to May 2012.  The grants helped fund breaks away, day trips to theme parks and museums as well as camping equipment or fun activities.

Christine from East Kilbride received a take a Break grant earlier this year.  She said: “We all enjoyed ‘fun’ time away from the everyday routine.  I also enjoyed some rare chill out time just for me whilst a crèche worker supervised my son. The staff were very accommodating of his needs with one-to-one support. Many many thanks, it is reassuring that in the current economic climate, help is out there!”

Stella Everingham, Head of Integrated Children's Services, Scottish Borders Council said: “The take a Break scheme has reached families far and wide in Scotland.  These short break grants are helping those that really need it the most by giving them the opportunity to get away from the daily pressures of raising a disabled child. Some live in very rural areas and can feel very isolated from the rest of society. The difference take a Break makes is incredible, a short break can rapidly reduce stress levels for parents and carers helping them get back to being a family.”

For more information and details on how to apply visit http://www.takeabreakscotland.org.uk/