Spending changes

Following feedback from families, we have made some changes to how families can spend some of their Short Breaks funding.

To manage the anticipated high demand, we are rolling out these changes gradually from 1 April 2023, giving each family the opportunity to take up the new offer, either:

• As a new applicant, or
• At your child’s next review if you are already receiving Short Breaks

The changes are:

• Families will be able to use the funding to pay for other family members in the same household to access activities, pay for annual passes and entry tickets etc, alongside the child named in the Short Breaks Plan
• Families will also be able to use the funding to pay towards a family holiday in the UK (for all family members in the same household)

Depending on your child’s annual budget, up to £1,000 per year can be used towards a holiday, family activities and toys and play equipment. Of the £1000, up to £250 can still be used for toys and play equipment, but for the named child only.

Families can only use their funding for a holiday, activities, and toys and play equipment, if this is included in their child’s plan.