What is a Short Break?

What is a short break?

An opportunity for children and young people to take part in activities whilst giving parents/ carers a break from their caring responsibilities.

Families can apply for a short break if the child or young person has a diagnosed disability. ADHD as a sole diagnosis does not qualify.

Short Breaks CANNOT be used to replace childcare that enables parents to work.

The short break must benefit the whole family, not just the child/young person.

How can I apply for a short break?

Parent / carers or a professional working with the family can complete a short break application form.

You can download an application form by clicking on the useful downloads at the right hand side of this page.

Or

Attend the SEND information drop in at the O Zone Barnsley Football Club the first Thursday of every month 9.30am - 12pm.  Staff will support you to complete the form and give further information about the type of short break you can apply for. For more information visit the Local Offer  LocalOffer - SEND INFO DROP IN or the Local Offer Facebook page Barnsley send local offer

Completed applications and supporting documents should be sent to shortbreaksECS@barnsley.gov.uk. 

What sort of short break can I apply for?

• Day care including day nurseries and childminders for ages 0 to 5.  For more information visit Local Offer - Early Years and Childcare
• After school and holiday clubs for ages 5 upwards. For more information visit FSD - out of school and holiday clubs
• Clubs and Group activities:
• Outdoor Activities for ages 5 to 25
•  Snap Tin Cafe, for ages 8 to 18
• Positive Activities at The Ozone for ages 8 to 25
• Reds in the Community Disability Multi Sports for ages 8 to 18.
• R Club Barnardos for ages 5 to 18 with complex physical disabilities
• Overnight stays at Newsome Avenue for ages 5 to 18
• Direct Payments for ages 0-18

All settings can receive training to meet the individual needs of a child or young person.

What happens after I have applied?

The monthly short break panel will discuss the application, it will either be:

• Agreed – a suitable activity / provision will be offered

• Deferred – to request further information or clarification

• Declined – because the child/family do not currently meet the criteria for a short break

You will receive a letter within 21 days explaining the outcome and what steps to take next.

 Further Information

You can download the Shortbreaks statement on the useful downloads on the right hand side of the page.

If you still need to speak to someone call the Disabled Childrens Team on 01226 774050 or email shortbreaksECS@barnsley.gov.uk