An adult and child next to each other smiling at the camera. The child has his hip and legs attached to a walking supportive equipment.
Short breaks

The application window for Short Breaks grants for families and groups and organisations is now open

Short Breaks provide fun, engaging, and safe opportunities for children and young people with disabilities to engage in activities while offering support to their families.

They are designed to promote independence for children and providing a necessary reset for parents and carers.

  • children benefit from new interests, relationships and activities

  • parents can attend to their physical and mental wellbeing and maintain and develop social networks

How to apply: grants and guidance

The Short Breaks Statement for 2026/27 is a comprehensive guide to what Short Breaks are, the grants available (Community Access Grants for families, and Main Access Grants for organisations and groups), key dates, eligibility and how to apply.

  • applications for Main Access Grants for organisations and groups opened on 5 May and will close at midnight on Tuesday 16 June 2026
  • applications for Community Access Grants for families opened on 11 May 2026 and will close at midnight on Monday 22 June 2026

Read the full Children's Short Breaks 2026/27 Statement.

Published: Friday, 8th May 2026