As final preparations are being made for the launch of a new short breaks service contract next month, parents and carers are being asked to apply for places.
If you currently use or wish to use the short breaks provision, or apply for the Short Breaks Fund, you must apply by completing the form on the Short Breaks portal. Digital support is available in all of the borough’s libraries. Alternatively, you can call the Short Breaks Support Officer on 0151 443 4072 or 07775 014914.
The new short breaks contract will support children with disabilities and their families in Knowsley by providing opportunities for disabled children to benefit from new interests, friendships and activities as well as providing breaks from caring for carers of disabled children.
Learn Active NW has been awarded the contract and from 1 November, they will be getting to know children, young people and families; ensuring support is tailored to their needs; recruiting and training staff; setting up activities and venues; ensuring children and young people are placed in groups that are right for them; and offer opportunities for families to meet staff and learn more about the service.
These preparations will ensure a safe, smooth and successful start for everyone.
The new contract has been developed taking on board feedback from residents with SEND needs as well as recommendations from the Council for Disabled Children following a review they conducted earlier this year of the council’s short breaks offer and commissioning strategy.
The contract with Learn Active includes the delivery of a range of short break activities for children and young people with disabilities aged 5-19 years, along with activity sessions that will take place on weekdays, at the weekend, and at school holidays.
The sessions will take place in a range of centres across the borough, aimed at promoting independence, confidence, peer relationships and physical wellbeing. Sessions will also be delivered from a number of community locations, such as libraries and in parks.
Physical development activities will also be available including a combination of land‑based sports, movement activities and supervised swimming, tailored to individual needs, abilities and confidence levels.
Cllr Sean Donnelly, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said: “We have listened to our children and families regarding what they need from a short breaks offer, as well as taking into consideration the findings from a review undertaken by the Council for Disabled Children.
“We are committed to providing a high-quality short breaks offer that helps children and young people to thrive, whilst supporting parents and carers.
“The new offer has been designed to ensure that children and young people have access to enjoyable, engaging and inclusive experiences whilst also providing valuable respite for families.”