Carers of disabled offered breaks

Caring for disabled children can put families under a lot of strain

Local councils in England are to be required to provide free short breaks for the parents and carers of disabled children, under government plans.

The breaks can be in the day or overnight, in or out of the home, and may give youngsters the chance to experience fun new activities.

Some £280m in local authority grants has been provided over 2008-2011 to improve services on offer.

The government said short breaks made a big difference to children's lives.

'R and R'

Children's Secretary Ed Balls said it was vital that parents and carers of disabled children were given the chance to have a rest from the "tremendous strain" of their caring responsibilities.

"I know short breaks offer parents and carers the chance to have a rest, recover and rejuvenate, so they are better able to continue to provide the care their disabled children and other family members need."

They also offered disabled children new opportunities, the chance to mix, socialise and gain a sense of independence, he said.

The breaks would be offered for free but it would be down to local authorities to decide who should be eligible.

The Department for Children, Schools and Families has launched a consultation on the issue.