Red Cross to launch new short break bureau for Bute

The British Red Cross is launching a valuable new service on Bute for people receiving care and those who look after them.

Working in partnership with Argyll and Bute Council, the Red Cross is extending its Short Break Bureau to cover the island to help service users find their ideal respite break.

The bureau is being launched this coming Tuesday, May 17, at 10.30am, with an open meeting for anyone interested in learning more about the service at Trinity Church’s Castle Street Hall in Rothesay.

Bureau staff will advise on the range of breaks available and provide a personal service to help find the best option according to the needs of the individual.

Fiona Johnstone, senior manager for Red Cross health and social care in Argyll, said: “The bureau will offer a personalised service to people who are carers or being cared for.

“The service is aimed at all adults from the age of 18, who have mental health issues, learning disabilities or physical disabilities.

“We will be looking beyond the traditional form of respite breaks such as residential care and helping to match people with the type of break they want to have. We want to improve the range of short breaks available and to tailor them to the needs and aspirations of the individual. The breaks can vary in length from one night away to a maximum of two weeks.”

Referral to the Short Break Bureau will come through Argyll and Bute Council’s social work department.

The bureau will be administered from the Red Cross premises at 116 East Princes Street, Helensburgh from 9am until 5pm Monday to Friday. To contact bureau staff, telephone 01436 672744 or email [email protected] or [email protected]