Flats to offer respite and short breaks to unpaid carers

Two flats have been renovated by the Council with funding received from Welsh Government via the Integrated Care Fund (ICF) to offer respite and short breaks to unpaid carers.

The properties are in Corwen and Ruthin and form part of the Council’s Corporate Plan priority to support unpaid carers.

Both properties feature modern facilities and will allow carers and/or those they care for to have a break.

Both flats have easy access and adaptations to make them disabled friendly and have sleep in facilities if overnight support is needed.

This development builds on the successful pilot in Ruthin, where unpaid carers have been able to benefit from breaks within the Llys Awelon Extra Care Scheme in partnership with North East Wales Carers Information Service (NEWCIS).

Unpaid carers in the county can access a wealth of support from local and national organisations including short breaks, a sitting service and direct payments which allows them to balance a life alongside caring.

They are able to undertake a needs assessment carried out by NEWCIS, commissioned by the Council, to find out what support is available.

This assessment allows the unpaid carer to explain the impact caring has on them and their life and to explore a range of support options.

Cllr Bobby Feeley, Denbighshire’s Lead Member for Well-being and Independence, said: “Unpaid carers play a pivotal role in our society and the Council values their contribution. We have renovated these two properties to offer the chance for respite and short breaks.

“It offers the opportunity to take time out and I would encourage all unpaid carers in the county to contact the Council for a carer’s assessment so they can see what support is available to them.”

As part of its Corporate Plan, the Council has committed to supporting unpaid carers by improving the services that exist and ensuring young, young adult, parent and adult carers are aware of the support available.

Councillor Ann Davies, the Council’s Carers Champion, said: “I welcome the offer of these two properties in Denbighshire to give unpaid carers respite and short breaks.

“There is a huge burden of responsibility on their shoulders and this offer of support will help provide them with additional respite.”

You can find out more by contacting the Council’s Single Point of Access on 0300 4561000 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm or email spoa@denbighshire.gov.uk.