What is a Short Break?

A short break (sometimes called respite) provides children and young people with disabilities an opportunity to:

• Spend time and have fun with their peer group

• Prepare for adulthood

• Spend time away from their parents and carers

• Short breaks also give families an opportunity to have a break from their caring responsibilities, to rest and recharge

What type of short breaks are available?

Together for children fund a range of short breaks which aim to improve outcomes for children and families.

Activity and Youth Clubs

Activity based clubs, on a weekend and during school holidays.

Personal Support

Providing support to children and young people in their own homes or in the community.  This support is often offered on a 121 basis.  This can include a Direct Payment.  Your social worker can provide more information about this.

Residential

Short stays in a residential setting.  Our main provider is Grace House which is a Sunderland Care & Support Provision however others are available subject to your child's needs.

What parents have said about Grace House

• "Emma and her team consistently demonstrate that they provide a safe and caring environment for our child and communication is integral to our childcare, this is first class.  The package provided supports the full family, we can relax knowing our child is safe and well cared for at Grace House.  The team should receive a recognition award for the service they provide for our families."

• Staff are fantastic they do an amazing job; I feel really relaxed when my child stays.  My child has such a strong bond with the staff.  I couldn't think of anything to change it's brilliant.  The staff are worth their weight in gold, every single person deserves a medal."

Will I be charged for short breaks?

Most activities and services are free.  Eligibility for services is determined by a social care assessment of need undertaken by the social work team.

Will transport be provided?

Parents and carers are expected to transport their children to short break activities unless agreed as part of a child's care plan.

Sunderland Local Offer

Sunderland Local Offer provides information about what support services and activities are available to children and young people with disabilities in Sunderland.  

Here you can join the Disabled Children's Register to be kept up to date about new services and information.

Sunderland Parent Carer Forum

This is a parent led voluntary group of parents, carers and grandparents of children aged 0-25 with SEND.  If you would like to help influence how services for children and young people with SEND are shaped in Sunderland, and explore opportunities to come together and talk in a relaxed environment please contact the forum via the Sunderland pcf website or visit their Facebook page 'Sunderland Parent Carer Forum'.

Sunderland Carers Centre

Sunderland Carers Centre provide support for people who look after others; people who care for family members, friends and relatives.

The centre offers information, advice and guidance to carers in and around Sunderland - and it's all confidential, non-judgemental and impartial.