Decision details

West Sussex County Council has a statutory duty under the Breaks for Carers of Disabled Children Regulations 2011 to provide short breaks for children and young people with additional needs and disabilities, and their families.

Short breaks cover a range of activities from an hour’s sports activity, a summer playscheme, evening cinema trip or a fun day for the whole family. Short breaks enable children and young people with additional needs and disabilities to try new experiences, both with and away from their siblings and parents or carers, giving them the opportunity to learn new skills, develop their confidence and have fun.

Short breaks also give parents and carers a break from their caring role, giving them a chance to rest, catch up on day-to-day activities and spend time with other family members. There is strong evidence that short breaks support the health and well-being of the children and young people receiving the break but also other family members. As families feel well supported and therefore more resilient this offers potential for less draw on specialist services provided by the Council both in children’s and ultimately adults’ services.

In May 2015 the then Cabinet Member for Children – Start of Life approved the creation of a Dynamic Purchasing (DPS) Scheme for commissioning short breaks (Decision reference CH04 (15/16)). The initial term for the DPS is due to expire in April 2021 and the intention is to extend the DPS for a further two-year period.

The Executive Director of Children, Young People and Learning has approved:-

(1)        The extension of the current Short Breaks Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) for two years commencing on 1st April 2021.

(2)        The delegation of authority to tender and award call off contracts from this DPS to the Assistant Director Children’s Commissioning

None