Tender for the Provision of Children Short Breaks

2026-11-03

A short break was described as "additional services required to support disabled children and their families; in other words, short breaks are services over and above the universal services expected and available to all families". A short break can be for just a few hours to overnight care or longer, e.g. a holiday, and could be within a variety of settings, including the child's home. Short breaks are designed to engage disabled children and young people in either one to one or group activities, which will be enjoyable, reduce social isolation and contribute to personal and social development and are usually undertaken away from their primary carer. A short break can be a range of activities; including sports, music sessions, going to the cinema, youth club, after school clubs, play schemes and/or residential care. Whilst all children should be able to access youth clubs, extended schools activities, community and leisure facilities - if additional support is required (e.g. the child requires support through a sessional worker service) - this may then constitute a short break.

United Kingdom (UK)

2026-03-16