Celebration of Short Breaks service

Some of the hundreds of young people who have enjoyed activities as part of a Shropshire Council-run scheme will share their experiences at a celebration event this month.

The ‘Let’s Celebrate’ event, taking place at London Road Sports Centre in Shrewsbury on Friday 25 February 2011 from 1pm to 4pm, has been organised to highlight the opportunities available through the Government-funded ‘All-In’ Short Breaks programme.

The aim of Short Breaks is to give parents and carers a break from caring. It also gives children and young people with a disability or additional need the opportunity to experience a wide range of social and leisure activities independently of their families and carers. This can include daytime, evening, overnight or weekend activities and can take place in, or away from, the family home.

Families have been invited to the celebration event for the first showing of a Short Breaks film created by a group of young people with disabilities and additional needs, which includes photographs and interviews taken during some of
the activities.

Activities will also be run from 1pm by organisations which currently work with the council offering Short Breaks. Children and young people will be able to take part in arts and crafts, drama and dance, trampolining, archery, tri-golf, wheelchair sports, cycling and inflatable activities. Information stands and refreshments will also
be available.

Councillor Aggie Caesar-Homden, Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said:

“We know from parents and carers how important these breaks are for the whole family. More than 550 children have enjoyed a Short Break in Shropshire this year alone. The programme, which is made possible through grant funding, gives children with disabilities and additional needs an opportunity to develop new friendships and try new activities, while parents and carers have a chance to take a break.

“We are looking forward to celebrating with the families that have been involved with Short Breaks since the programme began in the county in April 2010. We would also encourage any families who could benefit from the programme, and have not already, to come along to the event and find out more.”

For more information about what Short Breaks can offer please call Harry Cade on 01743 282370 or visit www.shropshire.gov.uk