A short break is any activity that gives a child or young person a positive, enjoyable experience independently from their parents/carers, for example helping them to socialise, form friendships and spend time with supportive carers. This will also give their parent/carer a valuable break from their caring role. Short breaks can take place after school, at the weekend, during school holidays or overnight. Short breaks can take place in the child or young person’s own home; in the home of an approved carer; in a community setting or in a building based service. A short break can involve a child or young person joining in a group activity such as a club, or it can be an activity a child or young person does on their own supported by a personal assistant.
In Sunderland, a short break is part of a continuum of services which support the wellbeing of disabled children and young people aged 0-18 and their families.
Legislation requires all local authorities to provide short breaks for families with disabled children. This duty, which came into force on 1st April 2011, requires each local authority to produce a Short Breaks Statement so that families know what services are available; the eligibility criteria for these services, and how the range of short breaks is designed to meet the local needs of families with disabled children living in Sunderland.
Use the Download section to access the full Short Break Statement