To mark National Share The Care Week (19 - 25 March) City of York Council is urging local people to give a little time and make a big difference to disabled children and their families.

The national awareness raising event encourages people to provide regular, short-term care to a disabled child so that their parents get a regular break from caring. There is currently a real need for more short break carers to support families of disabled children in York.

Shared Care Network, a national charity, will be launching the findings of its UK survey into short break schemes during Share The Care Week.

Liz Cole, who manages the council's sharing care scheme, said: "Nationwide there are 10,500 disabled children who benefit from short break carers, but another 3,500 still waiting for this kind of support. Here in York we have 70 children with short break carers, but there are still a number of children missing out.

"A short break carer could provide them with fun and new experiences. Short breaks benefit everyone - disabled children, their families and their carers. It is one of the services that families of disabled children ask us about most, so we need more people to come forward to take up this very enjoyable and fulfilling role."

There is no such thing as a typical short break carer - the council is looking for people who enjoy being with children and would welcome the opportunity to help a disabled child realise their potential. Short breaks can range from a few hours a week to overnight stays once a month, although there is also a need for carers to offer regular weekly stays. Training and support are provided, as well as an allowance. Whatever you feel you might be able to offer, Sharing Care would like to hear from you.

To find out more, call the council's Sharing Care team on 01904 551550 between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Friday, or email sharingcare@york.gov.uk