How short breaks support families
We know that families caring for a child or young person with disabilities face extra pressures. Short breaks give children opportunities to try new things, build confidence and have fun. They also give families time to rest. This can reduce stress and make family life feel easier.
Our Short Break Statement explains:
- what short break services are available
- who can use them
- how they support families in Somerset
Short breaks families can access
We offer support that fits into everyday family life, with as little intrusion as possible. Our universal offer is open to all families that need it. You do not need a referral to access it.
Support for all families includes:
- Activity calendars (term-time and school holidays)
- Day passes for free access to Somerset attractions
- Max Cards for discounted access to major attractions
- Annual Family Fun Days
- Clubs supported by our Community Inclusion and Activities Team
- The Unstoppables
- Coffee mornings for parents and carers
These activities help families meet others who may share similar ups and downs. They also help families build friendly, supportive relationships.
When families need more help
Some families may need targeted or specialist support from the Children with Disabilities Team.
You can ask for a referral when a child or young person:
- Has a diagnosed disability, or is on the neurodevelopmental pathway
- Has a permanent disability, which has a significant impact on their day-to-day life.
And there is evidence that:
- Universal services alone cannot meet their needs. Or the child cannot use these services without extra support.
- Parent carers need extra support to meet their child’s needs.
- There are concerns about the child’s wellbeing or safety.
To request an assessment, families can call the Family Front Door on 0300 123 2224. Professionals can complete an Early Help Assessment (with parent carer consent).
About the assessment
An assessment helps us understand daily life for the child with disabilities and their family.
As part of the assessment, a practitioner will meet the child or young person and the people who support them. The practitioner will look at what is working well, and what extra help may be needed. Support may include:
- direct work or intervention,
- a Somerset Supporter,
- Direct Payments or
- overnight Short Break Care, with transport considered in some cases
We work in a non-judgemental way and build on your family’s strengths.
If you are unhappy with a decision or how support has been provided, you can make a complaint. This allows us to review what happened and explain our decision.