12:30 pm, Friday, 8th September 2023

Providers invited to learn more about short breaks and respite care

UPDATE: Following the event on Monday 11 September, providers are still invited to share their views on our short breaks offer, to inform future commissioning decision making, until midday on Tuesday 26 September. Register below to view the event presentation and share your views.

Providers are invited to attend a market engagement event either in person or on online on Monday September 11 at 1pm to learn more about providing short breaks/respite for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Short breaks allow children and young people with SEND to enjoy activities, try new experiences, and offers their families a break from their caring role.

The Local Authority is exploring with providers, ideas and opportunities to develop short breaks in our borough that can meet the needs of children and young people with specialist or complex needs. The information gathered will inform future commissioning decision making.

The Local Authority wish to increase group activities, after school clubs, school holidays and weekend activities for daytime, evening, overnight short breaks for NEL children and young people with SEND.

These short breaks can take place in the child’s own home, the home of an approved carer, or a residential or community setting.

As a result of this work families will benefit from more choice of short breaks, more provision during the weekend and holidays, and more help for families who have direct payments.

Janice Spencer, Director of Children’s Services said: “Short breaks have a positive impact on the wellbeing of both children and young people and their families and because short breaks are funded by the government according to the child’s level of need, it comes at no cost to their family.

“As well as providing enriching experiences for those with SEND, short breaks also allow their families time to themselves without their caring responsibilities. It’s a great way to support children and young people and their families who can expect to see more choice of activities and types of short breaks.”

Providers will need to register on YORtender, the Authority’s procurement platform if they aren’t already, however, registration is quick and free.

The Pre -Market Consultation documents (PMC) are published on YORtender so any clarity questions willbe managed via this platform. We aim to respond to all questions within 48 hours however.

The closing date for the PMC responses is Tuesday 26 September at 12pm. There will be some questions and an opportunity to offer feedback on the ideas shared and opportunities explored

You are also invited to register for a market consultation for supported accommodation for Looked After Young People and Care Leavers aged 16 -17 years old.

If you have any questions, please contact Helen Norris at helen.norris@nelincs.gov.uk.