Evolving from a Young Carers project initially established in 2005 Supporting Carers And Families aims to relieve the social, emotional, mental, physical and educational needs of Carers and their families in the county of Essex, through the provision of support, person and group centered interventions, advice, guidance and signposting to other services as appropriate. As a registered charity SCAFT is voluntarily funded and currently offers it’s free services across the Rayleigh and Rochford District, delivering a range of innovative support options for both Young and Adult Carers from venues around the District to aid ease of access. Lead by an experienced children’s Service Manager and with strong governance from a widely experienced board of Director-Trustees SCAFT ’s services are delivered by a small but dedicated team of part-time Staff, Sessional Workers and Volunteers. This approach enables SCAFT to respond in a dynamic and flexible way to changes in need, best practice, local and national social policy.
SCAFT is a forward looking organisation aiming to meet the developing needs of unpaid Carers, a growing proportion of our community, through a continued process of evolution, building on existing strengths and a wealth of experience. With a strong emphasis on user involvement and evidence based advances, Carers are regularly consulted on current services and activities, as well as involved in the development of new ones. SCAFT is an active and leading participant in many local forums and sits on the area’s Children’s Partnership Board to represent Young Carers and Young Carers service providers.