Adults with learning difficulties to access new Edinburgh respite centre

A new centre designed to offer adults with complex learning difficulties the chance to meet new people and take a break in new surroundings has opened its doors in Edinburgh.

The Firhill Short Breaks Service will aim to provide breaks, ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks, for around 60 vulnerable adults each year.

The facility will offer users the opportunity to experience new surroundings, while also offering a break to their carers or families.

Staff say that people using the centre will be actively encouraged to make new friends and develop independent living skills, as well as being offered trips to the cinema, local shops and places of interest.

The respite service also aims to ensure families who care for adults with learning difficulties are supported and able to get some time to themselves.

Edinburgh City Councillor Paul Edie, Health and Social Care leader, said: “The short breaks service provided at Firrhill provides a valuable and much-needed facility to people across Edinburgh.

“Caring for someone is a demanding, and difficult job and both the cared for person and their families can benefit immensely from these short breaks. The user can build up their social skills and independence while the carer gets a much-needed break from the tough demands placed on them.

“Without this type of support many families would struggle to carry on with the daily pressures of caring for someone in their home.”

The new, eco-friendly Firhill facility replaces a former six bed unit in Currie which opened in 1987.