Short breaks provide opportunities for disabled children and young people to take part in activities, build independence and social skills, while giving families a break from caring responsibilities.
The report asks Cabinet to consider endorsing a new Devon Local Area Short Breaks Strategy for 2026 to 2030, alongside a new approach to commissioning services across the county.
The proposed strategy responds to feedback from children, young people and families, which highlights challenges with the current system.
These include limited choice, gaps in provision in rural areas, inconsistent accessibility, and a heavy reliance on individual assessments and direct payments.
If approved, the new approach would mean more local activities that are open to more families, with extra support available when it’s needed.
More specialist short breaks would be delivered by approved providers, helping to make sure families get good‑quality support wherever they live in Devon.
The report also sets out plans to improve information and advice for families, so they can more easily understand what support is available and how to access it.
The changes would be introduced gradually over several years and would be delivered within the Council’s existing short breaks budget. No additional funding is being sought.
Councillor Richard Jefferies, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services – Social Services, said:
“This report looks at how we could improve short breaks for disabled children and young people in Devon. We will be discussing the proposal at the meeting, but the focus is on making support easier to access, more inclusive, and better suited to families across the county.”
Cabinet will consider the report at its meeting on Wednesday 11 March 2026.
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