Giving Families A Break

A new £500,000 facility that helps families by offering respite care for adults with learning disabilities has been opened in Bridgend, Wales. Called Breakaway, the respite care home will provide short, medium and longer-term care. It will support families by giving them the opportunity to enjoy a break, go on holiday or take part in an event that they would otherwise not be able to attend. Breakaway will provide purpose-built facilities and has been constructed to a high standard that includes the latest technology for supporting people with profound and complex needs.

Says Councillor Ralph Hughes, Cabinet Member for Social Services and Housing: “Caring for someone with a learning disability can be a full time job, so a facility like this can make all the difference for carers. Whether it’s a weekend or a fortnight, the centre can provide carers with a much-needed break.

“Such respite breaks are fundamental to the health and well-being of the whole family and the service will be used by up to 90 local people throughout the year. A recent report from mental health charity Mencap has highlighted the continuing problem of caring for people with severe and profound learning disabilities without any break, so the opening of Breakaway is perfectly timed.”

The new centre is registered with the Care Standards Inspectorate and a team of 14 members of staff will work in shifts to provide 24-hour care. It replaces an older facility in Pencoed.