A pioneering baby-sitting service for disabled children will help to transform the lives of little Joe Smith's parents, writes Katherine

MacAlister.

The Oxford-based service, called Flexicare, will allow Wendy and Pete Smith to take invaluable breaks while dedicated staff look after the brain-damaged four-and-a-half-year-old, who can communicate only by blinking.

And the couple, from Greater Leys, Oxford, will be able to enjoy their services more frequently, thanks to the overwhelming support this week of Oxford Mail readers.

You responded magnificently to our appeal to raise cash to buy Joe a computer to help him communicate with the outside world. Flexicare co-ordinator Sara Hall said: "We went to the Smiths' house last month and looked after Joe while the family had supper in the kitchen for two hours. It gave them a much-needed break and time to be alone together."

The Smiths, who gave up their jobs four years ago to look after Joe 24 hours a day, now hope to use the Flexicare service regularly.

The charity was started 15 years ago by nurse Sue Kenrick after she babysat for a friend whose child was disabled. She realised that there was no similar service available in Oxfordshire.

Sue stood down last year, but the service now has 25 volunteers and 60 families on its books. But there is a waiting list because demand is so high. Sara added: "There is other respite care, but not just for a few hours so parents can go to the shops, have a haircut, or spend time with the rest of their family - everyday things that are hard to do when they have disabled children.

"Families who join us may use Flexicare two or three times a month."

Social services pay half the cost and the charity raises funds to pay the rest.

The charity can be contacted on 01865 779404.

Story date: Wednesday 09 February

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