Short Break Stories

Creative Breaks Aberdeenshire

A story by Aberdeenshire Carers Service

We provided grants directly to carers who live across Aberdeenshire.

What Creative Breaks Aberdeenshire did

Carers were advised of the opportunity to apply for a Time To Live grant in a variety of ways through their Care Manager, Carers Support Worker, GP, the VSA and Aberdeenshire Council website.

The need for an application to the Time To Live Fund was generally prompted by the assessments made by the Carers staff during an outcomes based conversation during which the carers were supported to consider the impact of their caring role, areas where they needed support and how this could be achieved.

Completed applications were considered at a multi-agency panel including carers and given the geographical nature of Aberdeenshire we agreed to host panels on a rolling rota in North, Central and South Aberdeenshire.

Mrs C made an application to the Time To Live fund to purchase card making equipment because she had always enjoyed craft activities. When involved in this at home she reported that it stimulated conversation between her husband and herself and although he was unable to participate he took interest in the finished product.

Mrs C also began to receive orders for bespoke cards from family, friends and neighbours which also led to her bring involved in small community events and fundraising for local charities.

Mrs W lives in a rural community and felt "tired" as a consequence of her ongoing caring role. Due to her family and caring commitments she was unable to travel far or be away for any length of time. She was able to source a qualified massage therapist close to her home and made an application to the Time To Live Fund for a block of 6 massage sessions.
A group of Carers had expressed an interest in attending cooking classes with the aim of expanding their knowledge and expertise but also using slow cookers to allow them to be more organised on busier days.

What Aberdeenshire Carers Service has learned

We have learned that the fund can provide a range of positive outcomes for carers. However we have also recognised that we need to enhance the range of very short breaks or "treats" to carers. This in turn would allow us to maximise use of the grant and number of awards.
Top tips Aberdeenshire Carers Service's top tips for an organisation that wants to run a similar project
Tip 1:
Increase variety and range of short break opportunities- maximising grant and increase number of awards
Tip 2:
Liaise with local community services- this will promote carer awareness and also range of readily accessible resources. Some local businesses may also offer discounted rates
Tip 3:
Encourage group applications for common requests.