Consultation opens on county council Short Breaks strategy for disabled youngsters

Kent County Council (KCC) has launched a public consultation on its draft Short Breaks Strategy 2026–2031 aiming to expand opportunities where possible, reduce waiting times and improve support for eligible disabled children, young people, and their families.

The consultation runs from 10 March to 30 April, and KCC is calling on families, professionals, and community partners to help shape the future of Short Breaks across the county.

Short Breaks give eligible disabled children and young people the chance to enjoy safe, fun, and inclusive activities, while offering parents and carers essential time to recharge. Breaks can include in-home support, community-based clubs, and overnight stays.

However, demand for services — especially for children with complex needs — often exceeds availability. The new strategy, developed through engagement with families, providers, practitioners and health partners, sets out a five-year plan to make access more consistent, transparent, and equitable.

Chris Palmer, Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Integrated Children’s Services, said: “Short Breaks are a lifeline for many families, but we know from our engagement with families and partners, that the system needs to be easier to navigate and more consistent across Kent.

“This strategy is about building the right support, in the right places, at the right time. We want to hear from families and partners to make sure the final plan reflects what really matters to them all.”

The draft strategy sets out seven priorities aimed at strengthening the service, including:

• More options for children with complex needs, where demand is highest
• Clearer, simpler information so families know exactly what support they can access
• A more equitable offer across districts
• A review of overnight provision to reduce long waits
• Better preparation for adulthood, including opportunities to build life skills
• More inclusive mainstream activities in local communities
• Greater flexibility through Direct Payments, with better support for families employing Personal Assistants

KCC is also consulting on plans to:

• Change how overnight short break nights are allocated to ensure they reflect individual needs
• Retire the Max Card offer linked to the Disabled Children’s Register, while signposting families to wider discount initiatives

Have your say

Residents can view the full Strategy and information on KCC’s other proposals and take part by completing the online questionnaire.  Easy Read versions of the strategy and questionnaire will also be available on the website.

Questions can be emailed to: c[email protected]
(Please quote Short Breaks Consultation.)

Other alternative formats, such as paper copies or Large Print, are available on request by emailing [email protected] or calling 03000 42 15 53 (text relay service number:18001 03000 42 15 53).

Next steps

All feedback will be analysed and published in a consultation report on the consultation webpage. The final Strategy and recommendations on KCC’s other proposals are expected to be presented to the Children, Young People and Education Cabinet Committee in the Summer for discussion and final decision by the Cabinet Member for Integrated Children’s Services.