About short breaks
Below is information that is taken from the Hampshire County Council website regarding short breaks:
Short Breaks enable children and young people with disabilities and/or additional needs to join in with safe and fun activities. They give parents or carers an opportunity to have a short break from caring.
Who can take part
Short Breaks are for children and young people who:
are in possession of a valid Gateway Card+
have a disability and/or additional needs
need support to take part in accessing play schemes, community groups
need 1:1 support to access the community (Buddy Scheme only)
are between 0 and 17 years old
live in the Hampshire County Council authority area (excluding Portsmouth, Southampton, Isle of Wight and neighbouring local authorities)
Activities
Short Breaks can last from a few hours to a whole day. They provide a positive experience for all.
Short Breaks could:
offer 1:1 support to attend activities and build independence (Buddy Scheme)
help your child or young person to join a Holiday, Weekend or Youth Club
Cost
Each activity/club has a standard cost that applies to all children, including those with disabilities or additional needs. Parents and carers are responsible for paying this fee.
The Short Breaks programme can fund the additional support a child may need in order to access a play scheme or activity, such as the cost difference for one‑to‑one support or the provision of specialist equipment required to enable meaningful participation.
If you are not able to pay the parental charges, please speak with the provider.
The Charging and Concessions policysets out the recommended market rates providers should be charging for each activity.
Finding out about short breaks
Register for a free Gateway Card+ and receive updates
The Connect to Support Hampshire Directory lists family services, childcare information and leisure and recreation activities
How to book
You book all activities directly with the provider.
You will need a free Gateway Card+ to take part in any activities funded by the Short Breaks programme. Gateway cards are free to apply for.
Service statement
The service statement is for parents and carers of children and young people with disabilities and/or additional needs. It explains what services are available in Hampshire and how to access them.
The statement covers the whole range of short breaks, including daytime activities and overnight breaks.
If you have any queries regarding Hampshire’s Short Breaks offer, please get in touch: shortbreaks@hants.gov.uk
