New £6.5 million respite centre to support families

A new £6.5 million respite care centre will help families of people with additional needs to rest and recharge while their loved ones are looked after, a council says.

Surrey County Council has opened the respite centre, called The Squirrels, in Banstead after previously opening a similar centre in Woking in 2025.

The new eight-room centre will allow the council to offer respite care to 140 more families each year, a spokesperson said.

Mother Eleri, whose son David uses the services, said: "It's really important to me and the rest of the family that he's happy here as it means we can take an occasional break ourselves."

She added: "We get to relax, knowing David is being well looked after and enjoying opportunities to develop and do things in the local community."

The Squirrels, which includes a sensory room and outdoor spaces, will be used by families whose loved ones have autism or learning difficulties.

They will use the service for short breaks, ranging from a day to two weeks, which will allow carers to take a break from their caring responsibilities.

The service can be accessed through Surrey County Council's adult social care service, which will assess each individual's needs and refer them for breaks where appropriate.

Louise Hayes, of Surrey Choices, said: "Every family deserves the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved one is safe, supported and enjoying new experiences.

"The Squirrels will help us reach more families across Surrey with the high-quality respite care they need and deserve."

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