Update for parent carers on changes to Short Breaks

We've been working with parents and carers to change how Short Breaks are provided in Norfolk, so that more children and young people can take part in more inclusive activities in their local communities. This is part of our Short Breaks strategy for 2023-2026. 

We're making some changes to how we run our Short Breaks service and so wanted to make sure in advance that you were:

  • Aware of these changes
  • Have the information you need
  • Have the opportunity to ask any questions

We want to be really clear that these changes do not in any way reduce the level of support we are offering or the options for breaks available to you.

Changes to how you pay for children's activities providers

The key element of the change is that in future we will directly pay some providers for children's activities, rather than parents and carers finding and paying for activities themselves using a pre-payment card.

For families already using the service, we'll work with you during your next review if appropriate, to choose from a wider range of activities that meet your child's and family's needs. This allows us to monitor quality, support training, and offer more activities to more families. It also means more inclusive activities will be available for children.

If for any reason we collectively feel the new approach doesn't meet your child's needs and outcomes, you can still opt for a pre-payment card.

We will make these changes gradually and won't change anything for your child without first agreeing on a plan with you.

Our next steps

The County Council is currently finalising its annual budget at the next council meeting. The papers for this meeting include a proposed reduction in the Short Breaks budget but it is important to be really clear that this will be achieved through the more efficient approach to commissioning the service described above, rather than any reduction in service.

We assure you that the level and quality of services you receive will remain the same as before. By working more closely with activity providers, there will be more options and a greater variety of activities available.

We believe this approach will help with financial challenges that the Council does face without reducing the service offered.

When changes will start

The changes to how families pay for activities will start after April 2025. 

Contact us

We will continue to engage with families and will provide more information during the spring, but in the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please email us at highneedscommissioning@norfolk.gov.uk

Read our privacy notice to find out how we use your personal information.

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