£2m boost to give families of disabled children more short breaks

DISABLED children and their families across the Lothians are to benefit from more short breaks after a £2 million investment.

The Scottish Government said the cash would allow organisations to take families whose lives were dominated by the complex care needs of a disabled youngster away for periods of rest.

It is hoped the scheme will also help the youngsters make more friends, and for parents and carers to meet others in the same boat.

Under the plans, cash will be handed to families of severely disabled children to help them pay for specialist equipment.

Public health minister Michael Matheson said: “Caring for a disabled child is immensely rewarding and fulfilling but can sometimes be challenging and stressful.

“This funding is focused on giving families with a disabled child up to the age of 20 the opportunity for a short break.

“We want to see this initiative improve quality of life, health and well-being for hundreds of families in Scotland.”