Purpose

Wiltshire Council is reviewing its approach to delivering Short Breaks for families of children and young people with additional needs, with the development of an enhanced offer than supports a greater number of children and young people. As part of this approach a provider will be commissioned to deliver activities.

Decision

Resolved:

That Cabinet note:

1. The statutory responsibility of the Council and health to deliver a Short Breaks offer;

1. The reasons for looking to develop a new approach for Short Breaks activity;

1. The extensive consultation and co-production activity that has taken place in developing a new approach to providing families and children with Short Breaks;

That Cabinet approve:

1. The new approach to the delivery of Short Breaks activity from April 2026 as set out at Option 3 of Paragraph 53, being an inclusive and needs based offer for Children and Young People with SEND, with an estimated cost of £1.1-1.3m.

1. To delegate to the Director, Education and Skills any necessary activity within the approved cost to ensure that the new Short Breaks offer is completed for commencement in April 2026.

Reason for Decision:

To provide an update on the development of a new strategic co-produced approach to delivering Short Breaks for children and young people with SEND and to outline the new approach to delivery from April 2026.