Short Breaks Services Information Statement – Joint Service for Disabled Children

Introduction and Background

This information is for families living in the London Borough of Enfield who have a disabled child aged 0 to 17 years inclusive.  It describes the process agreed by Enfield 's Joint Service for Disabled Children to prepare and publish our statement of short breaks services.  

Section 25 of the Children and Young Persons Act requires local authorities to provide short breaks for families with disabled children.  This duty which came into force on 1 April 2011 requires each local authority to produce a short breaks services statement so that families know what services are available, the eligibility criteria for these services, and how the range of short breaks is designed to meet the local needs of families with disabled children.  

Short Breaks provide disabled children and young people with an opportunity to spend time away from their parents, relaxing and having fun with their friends.  They provide families with a 'break' from their caring responsibilities; they give parents a chance to un-wind, rest, spend time with their other children and give brothers and sisters an oportunity to enjoy family time too. Parents may use their break time to enjoy a leisure activity or if they are studying, to support their studies.   Examples of short breaks include holiday play schemes, family fun days and home sitting.