Release Date: 30/05/2008
Carers are needed for Richmond Council’s Adult Placement Scheme, which provides fostering-style support to adults with learning disabilities.
Launched last year, the scheme seeks to find carers who can welcome people with learning disabilities, who are over 18, into their home and support them in many aspects of daily life.
Placements can be on a long-term basis, in which the carer is paid £375 per week, as well as on a respite basis or as a stepping stone to independent living.
Lynn Gregory, a carer for six years, spanning the transition from foster care into adulthood, said:
“I wanted to continue caring as the person I support has become one of our family. We have a close trusting relationship and my children regard her as their sister.
“Over the years my family and I have supported her to learn various everyday skills, such as reading and writing, cooking and cleaning and travelling on public transport.
“I have pride in the skills that she has learnt and I look forward to the day she will be able to live independently, although we will still consider her part of our family.”
Ray, who is among those looking for a family to give him a home, said:
“I am looking for a couple or single person who will welcome me and my pet budgies to be part of their household and support me with day to day living.
“I am a good pal to take to the pub, an asset in the kitchen and offer quiet companionship.”
Anyone can become a carer, whether they live alone, with partners or with family.
Relevant training and support will be provided so no special qualifications are necessary and it not essential to have experience of working, living with or caring for people with a learning disability.
Potential candidates must go through an assessment process and police checks but people from any background can apply.
Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing on Richmond Council, Cllr Denise Carr, said:
“This is an excellent scheme that can really make a difference to people’s lives.
“We are aiming to provide a positive alternative to residential care, allowing adults with learning disabilities to live more independently and become integrated in the local community.
“Carers will receive training, support and payment from the Council. I encourage anyone interested to get in touch.”
For more information about the Adult Placement Scheme please contact Cathy Gregg on 020 8487 5399