19/12/2011 - Permalink

Invitation for applications to be part of Short Breaks scheme

Related topics: Community / Leisure, culture and heritage

Shropshire Council is inviting organisations to submit applications to be part of its Short Breaks scheme.
 
The Short Breaks programme provides opportunities for children and young people with disabilities to take part in activities independently of their families, while their parents and carers have a break from caring.  These are delivered by the council and partners.
 
Organisations can apply for contracts to provide services as part of the Short Breaks programme from April 2012 to March 2013.
 
The council is looking for organisations to apply which can be involved in the scheme in ways such as offering: 
 

  • Occasional overnight opportunities.
  • Cultural, educational or leisure activities outside of the home. This may include after school, school holiday or weekend opportunities.
  • Services available to assist carers in the evenings, at weekends and during the school holidays.

 
Councillor Ann Hartley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for health and well-being, said:

“Hundreds of children have enjoyed a Short Break in Shropshire since the scheme was launched in the county, and we know from parents and carers how important these breaks are for the whole family.
 
“The programme, which is made possible through Government 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.
 
“As is usual at this time when we plan ahead for the next financial year, we are inviting organisations to submit applications to be part of the scheme and add to the opportunities on offer.”

 
For further information regarding the services the council is looking to procure and the contract application form go to http://shropshire.gov.uk/procurement.nsf
 
The deadline for receipt of application forms is 5pm on Friday 27 January 2012.
 
A question and answer session will be held for interested organisations on Tuesday 17 January 2012 at Shrewsbury Sports Village, Sundorne Road, Shrewsbury, between 10am and 12pm.  Refreshments will be available from 9.30am.
 
Anyone who would like to attend, please contact Jo Latham by emailing jo.latham@shropshire.gov.uk or calling 01743 282370.