Short break activities that are available

There is no limit to the number of short breaks you can use, and all children and young people are eligible for additional support if required. Here is an overview of the short breaks you can access:

• Specialist play schemes

We are working in partnership with activity providers to offer families a range of specialist holiday and weekend play schemes across Hampshire. Many of these are based at Hampshire’s special schools, others are based at play facilities designed especially to meet the needs of children and young people with disabilities and/or additional needs. Grants have been awarded by the County Council to support these play schemes for 2013-14.

For more information about play schemes and youth schemes that are available, please contact Parent Voice Information Service by email parentvoice@roseroad.org.uk or call 023 8072 1206; or look at  the activities on the Hampshire Gateway website www.hampshiregateway.info.

• Parent Voice

To join Parent Voice, register at www.parentvoice.info, email parentvoice@roseroad.org.uk or call 023 8072 1206.

• Support for individuals

Any activity provider you choose can apply for funding to include your child in their programme of activities, such as leisure centres, Brownies, dance or sports clubs. You can expect to pay the standard cost for the activity, and the provider can apply for funding from the short breaks programme to meet the cost of supporting your child to participate in a safe and supporting environment.

• Community buddies

If your child would like to kick a ball in the part, go out with friends, visit local attractions, go shopping or see a movie, then a community buddy is for you. Available in many areas for 7 to 19 year olds, a community buddy is a trained volunteer or a paid worker that provides one-to-one support for your child to enjoy any activity you choose. The cost is usually £5 per hour, plus the cost of the activity and travel. Find out more at www.parentvoice.info

• Activities for all (Inspiring You)

There are a variety of Inspiring You events, activities or open days for the whole family to enjoy. Activities include outings with support groups or after school sessions that disabled children and young people and their siblings can participate in together. As many of the activities are offered to families of disabled children, extra support is usually available along with the opportunity to chat with other families. Costs vary and depend on the activities. These activities will be advertised through  www.hampshiregateway.info.

• Other ways you can find activities

To help you find local activity providers, you can also use Hampshire Gateway publications.

Register your child for a Gateway Card and tick YES to receiving updates.

You will then receive FREE copies of the Hampshire Gateway holiday listings before each main school holiday which list recreation and leisure activities available. You will also receive an annual Hampshire Gateway directory listing organisations and regular clubs/activities that run year-round.

Contact us

To find out more about short breaks, email shortbreaks@hants.gov.uk or call 01962 846399.