In the Spotlight

New respite service takes root
Council partnership delivers accessible short break support

Disabled adults living in and around Dundee now have a new purpose built living space for short breaks. Working in partnership with Dundee City Council we have raised funds to create a fully accessible service for short stays and respite. The service, has 3 rooms, which will be used on a rotational basis by up to 20 people when it is fully operational. At an official opening ceremony two young men who have used respite services helped Sense Scotland Patron Mary, Dowager Countess of Strathmore LLD DL plant a tree in the newly landscaped garden.

"We know how much respite services are valued by families and carers, so along with our partners in Dundee City Council we established a purpose built service. This is a wonderful achievement for the many people and agencies who have made this possible" explained our Chief Executive Gill Morbey. "Thanks to the generous support of Trusts, donations and in particular the help and interest in the project from our Patron we can now give more people a respite service and a much needed break."

The new building will provide flexible use of communal spaces and easy access to all areas in a safe and friendly place to be enjoyed by everyone who stays there.

"We have listened to the feedback from families and carers and recognise that respite care is one area where we can support families. This is particularly true for families who have sons and daughters, brothers and sisters with complex needs," added Bailie Helen Wright, Convener of Dundee City Council Social Work Committee. "The existing Sense Scotland respite service has shown for some time that they can support this group of people. I am confident that this new service will enhance the experience of people using it, and provide a valuable resource supporting people with complex needs and their families."

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