Carers in Highlands to be offered respite ‘menu’

Parents in the Highlands requiring respite care for their disabled children could be given clearer information on the help available.

Social work staff want to develop a “menu” of short breaks and respite care as well as setting out the minimum level of service families can expect.

Highland Council’s spending on the services increased from £1.7m in 2009-10 to £1.8m in 2010-11.

The proposals have been outlined in a report to a council committee.

There are about 1,020 youngsters with a disability attended schools in the region, including 141 in special schools.

In the report, development officer Marlyn Campbell said parents often asked for clear information on the services and options that may be available to them.