Become a short-break carer for a child with disabilities (Family Link)

Our Family Link carers look after children with disabilities, so the child’s parent can enjoy a short break. We are currently looking for new Family Link carers.

Our carers, in their own home, look after children for a few days each month. They help children take part in fun and educational activities at home and in the community. Some carers look after children just during the day, and others offer overnight stays. 

Family Link carers support children aged 0 to 18. The children may have:

• learning or physical disabilities
• sensory impairment
• a long-term illness
• social and communication difficulties such as autism

Our carers get training, support and supervision from a qualified Southwark Council social worker. 

“Spending time with Jenny has been a very rewarding experience for the whole family. Even my youngest daughter enjoys making her laugh.” Ola – Family Link carer

Who can become a Family Link carer

Family Link carers come from different backgrounds. We're interested in what you have to offer a child and you could be:

• working or unemployed
• with or without children
• single or with a partner

Previous experience of caring for children with disabilities is not essential, but you need to be willing to learn about a child’s individual needs and attend training.

For overnight breaks, you must have a spare room in your home for the child or young person, and you need to be able to pick up a child from their home and take them back afterwards. It is not essential to live in Southwark but you need to live close by.

Carers and household members must be non-smokers.

Types of Family Link carers

Day break carers

Day break care is where a Family Link carer provides care, in their own home and in the community, to a child during the day. Day break carers provide up to 30 hours of care a month.

Carers need to be available for a minimum of 2 full days a month, either at weekends, or during school holidays.

Overnight carers

Overnight carers provide overnight stays in their own home for up to 72 hours a month. 

Carers need to be available for a minimum of 2 full days a month, either at weekends, or during school holidays.

Contract carers

Contract carers are specialist carers who offer regular short breaks to children with more complex needs. 

Contract carers commit to providing at least 4 overnight stays each month, including two weekends. 

Contract carers get a small retainer fee and then an allowance for each overnight stay provided. They generally support between 4 and 6 children (1 at a time), through regular stays once a month.

How we support Family Link carers

Family Link carers get:

• advice and guidance from a social worker
• a financial allowance
• preparation and training
• ongoing support
• equipment necessary to care for the child

“You are not left on your own to get on with things. The scheme provides training, information and ongoing support.”

Fatima – Family Link carer

Apply to become a Family Link carer or get more information

If you want to get further information about becoming a Family Link carer, please complete the enquiry form and a member of the team will be in contact. 

Apply to become a Family Link carer

You can also contact us:

• email familylink@southwark.gov.uk
• phone 020 7525 5316