Framework to provide Short Breaks for Children who are Disabled from April 2022 - Potential reopening

Short Breaks for Children, Young People and Young Adults who are Disabled are focussed on delivering and developing services for 0 – 25-year-olds.

This tender is about putting in place a range of Targeted and Specialist Short Break opportunities throughout the County [Dorset Council area].

Short breaks are when a child or young person has planned time apart from their main carer outside school hours, taking part in activities they like, to form and develop friendships and become more confident and independent.

Short Breaks allow the child’s family to have a break from the demands of caring, to relax and recharge their batteries, to spend time with each other and their other children and to reduce family stress.

Reliability of the provision and support is essential in order that a family can plan ahead.

Short Breaks are for children and young people who need extra support and this tender is in relation to:

• Targeted Services – services intended for children and young people who are disabled and who need some additional support, or who may need groups and services specifically designed to meet their needs. Access is usually for children and young people who meet the criteria set by the provider but without the need for a social care assessment. Providers of targeted services will be expected to agree their acceptance criteria for attendance with Dorset Council.
• Specialist Services – services intended for children and young people who are disabled with more complex needs and who usually will have received a social care assessment.