Failing carers

Survey finds local authorities falling short on respite care. There are serious failings in the accessibility and accuracy of short break statements among local authorities in England, according to new research by the University. Short breaks or respite care is an important support service that allows families and disabled children to have time apart. A survey carried out by the Cerebra Legal Entitlements Research Project at Cardiff Law School found that of 63 councils analysed, more than 90 percent failed to advise parent carers and young carers of their right to an assessment. Other findings include: no clear explanation as to how the amount of support provided is decided (in 85 percent of cases); in excess of 80 percent of authorities failed to explain what families could do if they were dissatisfied with the support they were receiving; and in more than half of cases, it was difficult to locate the actual 'short break statement'. Professor Luke Clement, Cardiff Law School, who led the research said: "Short Breaks are of crucial importance to disabled children and their families. The research shows that many authorities are falling short of what the law requires.