Devon expands SEND Short Breaks with more activities and family support
A wider range of Short Breaks activities could soon be available for disabled children and young people in Devon, as the county council develops a new network of quality-assured providers
More disabled children and young people across Devon are set to benefit from an expanded Short Breaks programme, with a wider range of activities and support planned across the county.
The scheme gives disabled children and young people opportunities to take part in activities while providing parents and carers with a break from their caring responsibilities.
Activities include sport, music, drama, creative sessions, community groups and holiday programmes.
Around 1,500 children and young people currently access Short Breaks in Devon.
Devon County Council is developing a county-wide network of quality-assured providers to offer more choice and improve access across the county.
The changes follow the introduction of Devon's Short Breaks Strategy 2026-2030, which was approved in March.
One parent described the impact after their child attended a SEND Basecamp at Pixie's Holt on Dartmoor during half-term and a family day at Haven Banks in Exeter.
They said: "The new short breaks offers have been life changing. I haven't successfully left my child for over four years, which we managed at Pixie's Holt this half term. I went for cake in quiet!"
Councillor Richard Jeffries, Devon County Council's Cabinet Member for Children's Services Social Care, said the expanded programme would give more disabled children access to support regardless of where they live.
He added: "We want to ensure the £5.5 million we spend every year through the Short Breaks programme supports a strong, sustainable network of local, quality-assured providers covering a wider range of activities."
The council said the new provider network will complement, rather than replace, the Devon Wallet, which families use to manage personalised Short Breaks and support plans.
Direct payments will continue for families who need greater flexibility, particularly those with children who have more complex needs.
Councillor Denise Bickley, Cabinet Member for Children's Services SEND, said providers had worked with families to develop the Outdoor Explorers Club, a free resource encouraging children and young people to enjoy nature.
“Families of children with disabilities want their kids to enjoy high quality activities both in the school holidays and when a short break is needed. We can do more by working in partnership with providers,” Bickley said.