Short breaks
Short breaks are opportunities for disabled children and young people to have time away from their families or primary carers, to relax and have fun. They also provide parents and carers of disabled children with a necessary and valuable break from their caring responsibilities.
Short breaks can range from a few hours to an overnight break, and can take place inside the home or away from it, such as holiday, weekend or after-school activities.
Short breaks are available to anyone who cares for a child with a disability or special needs and lives in Southwark. The type of short break available will depend on the individual child (eg some activities are specifically for a particular age group or for a need such as autism).
Booking a short break
The list of available short breaks in Southwark includes details of who to contact; the process varies depending on the type of short break. For example, some are open to everyone so you just need to turn up; but for other more specialist care, you'll need a referral from the council's children with disabilities and complex needs team.
List of Southwark short breaks
More information
If you have questions or would like more information, speak to your social worker, school or other professionals involved in caring for your child.
You can also call Southwark's family information service for information and advice on 0800 013 0639.
The national regulations define who is entitled to short breaks, what local authorities should provide and what the statement should include.
Read Southwark Council’s short breaks services statement 2013 here.
Complaints
If you're unhappy about the type or level of service on offer, you can complain. We want to resolve any disputes quickly and effectively. In the first instance, contact the team manager for an informal discussion. If there are continuing concerns, the council has a formal complaints process, which can be initiated by contacting us by calling 0207 525 3977, email sscomplaints@southwark.gov.uk or through the online complaints form.
Contact us
Children with Disabilities and Complex Needs Team
Children's services
Southwark Council
132 Queens Road
Peckham
London
SE15 2ND
Tel: 0207 525 1921
Page last updated: 06 July 2022
