Short Breaks
Who Benefits from Short Breaks?
Our Short Breaks are designed for children and young people with additional needs, including:
- Children requiring 2:1 or specialist support
- Children with SEN who are more physically able
- Children and young people preparing for the transition to adulthood
- Families needing respite during weekends, school terms, or holidays
Why Choose QCM Short Breaks?
QCM Healthcare’s Short Breaks Service is designed to support families by offering safe, engaging, and flexible respite care. Whether you need just a few hours or s everal days, we provide tailored care that keeps your child happy and supported while you recharge.
- Rated "Good" by CQC
- Parents & Caregiver Respite
- Flexible Scheduling
- Skilled Caregivers
- Engaging Activities
- Safe & Comfortable Care
- 24/7 Continuous Monitoring
- Dignity, Respect, & Privacy
What We Offer
Home-Based Support
If your child is most comfortable in familiar surroundings, our trained team can come to your home to provide care and companionship. This could be for a few hours during the day or an overnight stay, so you can have peace of mind while taking a well-earned break.
Community-Based Short Breaks
We believe in helping children make the most of their local area. Our community-based support means we can take your child out to enjoy activities, attend clubs, or explore local attractions – all while providing the care and encouragement they need.
Play and Activity Sessions
Our sessions give young disabled children the chance to play by themselves or with others in a safe, caring space – with both indoor and outdoor areas available. Activities are fun, varied, and tailored to each child, from themed arts and crafts to messy and sensory play. During school holidays, we also run trips to the cinema, mini-golf, trampolining, bowling, and outdoor adventures like parks and zoos. Activities change with the seasons, but the focus is always on fun, friendship, and positive experiences.
Activity Holidays
For children who love adventure, we arrange short breaks filled with safe, exciting activities. These holidays are carefully planned to match abilities and interests, creating happy memories and giving you extra breathing space.
Daytime, Evening, and Overnight Care
For children who love adventure, we arrange short breaks filled with safe, exciting activities. Whether you need a short window to attend an appointment, an evening to yourself, or a longer overnight break, we provide flexible care to fit around your schedule – at home or in a safe, appropriate setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Short Break?
A Short Break provides temporary respite care for children and young people with additional needs, giving families a chance to rest while ensuring their loved one is supported and engaged.
How long can a Short Break last?
Breaks can range from 5 hours to several days — during the day, evening, overnight, weekends, or school holidays.
Where do Short Breaks take place?
At home, in a carer's home, residential settings, or in the community — depending on your family's preference.
What activities are offered?
From arts & crafts to outdoor adventures, sessions are tailored to each child's abilities and interests.
Can Short Breaks support children with higher needs?
Yes. We provide specialist care, including 1:1 and 2:1 support, depending on your child's requirements.
How Short Breaks Work
Assessment
We work with you to understand your child’s needs and preferences.
Care Planning
A personalised plan is developed, in partnership with families and professionals.
Support Delivery
Care is provided at home, in the community, or in residential settings, with regular feedback to parents.
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