Short breaks for disabled children and young people

Short breaks are matched to meet the child's needs, interests and preferences and aim to provide:

• extra social opportunities for the child
• a break for the parents and child
• time for parents to spend with other children in the family

See our short breaks statement to find out who can access a short break, what is available at different levels of need, and how this can be accessed.

There are three different types of short breaks available:

Universal support

This is the support available to everyone through universal settings, such as, libraries, leisure centres, children and family hubs and social activities. The majority of children who require services will receive them through such resources. Information on local services is available on our children and family hub page.

Additional support

Some disabled children and young people with less complex needs will require additional support to access some universal services. Additional support is often short-term assistance to help access mainstream services such as youth groups, scouts, guides and sports clubs. This might include advice or training for providers or short-term additional support to enhance confidence and skills, if necessary. 

For more information on additional support from your local early help consultant, please contact us.

Specialist support

For more information, see the disabled children and young people section.

How do I apply for short break funding?

If you feel your family would be eligible, and you wish to apply for a short break, please  complete the self-referral application form. (docx / 155 KB)

Short break grants are awarded to children under the age of 18.

All instructions on submitting this are within the form itself, however you should also read the Frequently Asked Questions below for further guidance to ensure you understand the process as clearly as possible.

Application panels

For 2024 the application process is as follows: All application forms, including any supporting documents, must be received by the deadline time and date. No late applications can be accepted. All applications must be completed on a 2024 application form.

Please contact your local Early Help team below if you require assistance in submitting the application or supporting documentation: Please note they cannot give any advice on the suitability of your application or advice on needs / assessment or documentation etc.

All application forms, including any supporting documents, must be received by the deadline time and date. No late applications can be accepted.