Short breaks

Short breaks give children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) the chance to:

  • have fun, try new things, and make friends
  • spend time away from their parents/carers
  • develop independence and life skills

They also give parents/carers time to rest, spend time with others, or do things they may otherwise struggle to do.

Short breaks are mostly focused on children and young people aged 0 to 25. However, you will still find plenty of things young people older than 18 can do.

You can view our full short breaks statement for more information. 

A man, woman and child walking away across a grassy field. A cartoon penguin kicking a football can be seen behind these people.

What short break services are there?

There are many services than can help with accessing activities. These include:

Click the links to learn more and how to apply. No social worker or care package is needed for many services

Information from https://childrenandfamiliesnewcastle.org.uk/
Printed on May 22nd 2026
Page last updated
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