Targeted Short Breaks in Southwark
Targeted short breaks are structured, inclusive activities designed to support children and young people aged 5–19+ with special educational needs and disabilities. These breaks offer fun, friendship, and new experiences in a safe and supportive environment, while also giving families valuable time to rest and recharge.
What are targeted short breaks?
Targeted short breaks are opportunities for children and young people to have fun and try new things, while giving parents and carers a break from their caring role. They are:
- Group-based: Activities are delivered in group settings to encourage children and young people to make friends and support each other.
- Accessible: Designed to meet a wide range of needs, including those with complex disabilities.
- Non-residential: These do not include overnight stays.
Activities may include:
- After-school clubs
- Weekend sessions
- Holiday programmes
Note: Overnight stays are not part of the targeted short breaks offer. These are considered specialist services and are only available through a social care assessment.
Who can access these breaks?
Children and young people who:
- Are aged 5–19+ and live in Southwark
- Have a disability or special educational needs with an Education Health Care Plan or receive mid or higher rate of Disability Living Allowance
- May not qualify for specialist social care services but would benefit from structured support
Getting started with a targeted short break
The Southwark Disability Hub coordinates targeted short breaks. The Hub will:
- Provide advice and guidance to families
- Support families with registration and booking
- Keep the online directory of activities up to date
If you are already registered with the short breaks booking platform and do not need any advice please head to the platform to register and book sessions.
Stay informed
We’ll keep you updated through:
- A regular short breaks newsletter
- Opportunities to give feedback and help shape future services
Sign up for our Short Breaks mailing list.
You can also email us at disabilityhub@keyring.org or give us a call on 020 3457 7580.
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Parents and Carers – Free SEND Training and Information Courses in Southwark
For a list of free SEND related information and training courses for parents/carers in Southwark, please see the link to the local offer page below where you can select your preferred course and see details of how to sign up:
Parents and Carers - Training and Information Programmes | Southwark Local Offer
Need help or have a suggestion?
If you have questions or need support accessing targeted short breaks, please contact the Southwark Disability Hub team. We’re here to help you find the right opportunities for your child: disabilityhub@keyring.org
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