Have your say

An important update from Surrey County Council

This message is being shared jointly by the following local organisations: White Lodge, Challengers, YMCA East Surrey and LinkAble, who all support children and young people with disabilities and their families across Surrey.

We are want to let you know about an important Surrey County Council consultation that may affect Play and Leisure Short Breaks for children and young people with disabilities across Surrey.

The consultation is looking at proposed changes to how Play and Leisure Short Breaks are delivered in the future. These proposals include changes to eligibility, the amount of provision a child can access, the type of support offered, and when sessions take place.

What this could mean for families

Play and Leisure Short Breaks can play a vital role in supporting children’s wellbeing, confidence and social opportunities, while also giving parents and carers valuable time to rest, work, or attend to other family needs.

Some of the proposals being consulted on could, if implemented, affect:

• Which children are eligible to access short breaks
• How much support a child can receive in a year
• The availability of specialist or 1:1 support
• The balance between family-inclusive activities and carer-only breaks
• When sessions are offered, including term-time, weekends and school holidays
• A potential increase in parent contributions

We know that for families, short breaks are not a luxury but an essential part of daily life. Any changes to how support is offered may therefore have a direct impact on both children, and their carers.                       

Why your voice matters 

This consultation is an opportunity for families to share their real experiences; what works well, what is essential for children and young people with additional needs and/or disabilities, and what the impact might be if support were reduced or changed.

Decision-makers need to hear directly from those who rely on these services, but you don’t have to be a parent carer to respond. Anyone can take part in the consultation. Your family and friends will be aware of the services you rely on, and will hopefully be more than willing to support, so do share the below link to the survey.

Take part in the consultation

• To complete the survey:
• Click this consultation link
• Scroll down the webpage
• Select “Take part in the survey” to begin

We are sharing this information with you to raise awareness of the consultation and to ensure you have the opportunity to share your views directly with Surrey County Council. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for everything you do to support your child and family.

With best wishes,