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News

CARERS GIVEN A BREAK THIS CHRISTMAS

During December, a free care service is being offered to people looking after a relative or friend over the age of 18, who cannot be left alone because of age, illness or disability.

The scheme, run on behalf of the Borough of Poole’s Social Services by local charity Help and Care, provides trained and police checked care assistants to look after the person, in their own home, so that their caring relative can get a break.

Subsidised by Poole Social Services and through the new carers grant, the scheme is offered free of charge this December. The friendly and confidential service is available all year round to all carers and is normally priced at £1.00 an hour on weekdays and £2.00 an hour at peak times.

Val Mitchell, Carers Development Officer, said: "This is a great special offer as Christmas is such a busy and expensive time. We hope that this offer will ease the stress and strain for people who care at home. The scheme could be used to help people do their Christmas shopping, go to parties and other events which caring relatives often miss out on." She added: "We hope that people who join the scheme in December will stay with us throughout the year and take regular breaks of a few hours or even overnight."

National surveys show that one in seven people in the UK care for others, and that these people cope better and remain more healthy when they take regular breaks.

People who want to use the service can apply direct to Help and Care and do not need a referral from a social worker.

For further information contact: Help and Care, Tel. (01202)434455, between 10.00am-1.00pm on weekdays (offer subject to availability.)

Val Mitchell, Carers Development Officer, Poole Social Services,