London Borough of Havering - Children and Adults with Disabilities Short Breaks Recommissioning

Short Breaks are intended to have positive benefits for both children and young people with SEND and their parents and carers. Short Breaks have a dual purpose: a) The main aims of Short Break services are to provide children and young people with SEND the opportunity to: • Enjoy, try new activities and develop friendships • Access provision/service both independently and with their families • Develop skills towards independence b) It also give families an opportunity to: • Have a break from their caring responsibilities • Rest and relax • Spend time with other members of their family Dependent upon the needs of the child or young person, a Short Break provision can range from a few hours a week to an allocated number of overnight breaks per year; these can be delivered in the day, evening, overnight or weekend. Short Breaks provisions are perceived as an essential part of the support provided to families of children and young people with SEND.