At Barking and Dagenham we recognize that each child and family have unique needs, and the type and level of support is tailored according to their needs. We ensure that our tailored support is empowering and giving children and young people opportunities to have fun but also the package of support offered is used to promote independence and self care skills in a safe and supportive environment. 

Not all children and families will need the same level of support, or short breaks. Some will need more than others because of the nature of their child’s disability, or the effect it has on normal day-to-day activities.

This is why we need to assess your child and family’s needs, to be able to provide the right Short Breaks Services at the right time.

We will undertake a Short Breaks Assessment, liaising with Partner Agencies such Health and Education Services to have a holistic understanding of your child’s needs. 

Parents and carers will receive a copy of the short breaks assessment being presented by the worker before it goes to panel. 

The final decision about any Short Breaks Package is made by our Resource Panel.

How do I arrange a Short Breaks Assessment for my child?

Children with disabilities and additional needs requesting support are legally entitled to a formal assessment of their needs and such assessment should precede any decision made regarding allocation of services. 

Parents/carers or involved professionals can complete a self-referral form for Short Breaks which is then submitted to the Short Breaks team. An allocated worker will be assigned to complete the assessment. Alternatively, if you already have an allocated Early Help Worker or Social Worker, they can complete this assessment.

Form and Guidance

• LBBD Short Breaks Self-Referral Form (DOCX, 89.17 KB)
• LBBD Short Breaks Self-Referral Form Guidance (PDF, 88.81 KB)

This assessment is then presented to our Resource Panel and you will be notified of the outcome.

What if I disagree with the outcome?

If you disagree with the decision about the level of short breaks that you have been allocated, and you feel that there is important new and significant information that should be considered, you can provide additional information, reports and assessments so that the decision can be reviewed by the Short Breaks Team Manager. 

If the panel decision is not changed, the decision will then be reviewed by the Head of Service.

Review

All Short Breaks packages of support will be kept under review on an annual basis.

If your child/young person’s needs change significantly then you can request a review at any time.

Contact Details 

The Short Breaks Team can be contacted as follows:

Email: referrals.shortbreaksteam@lbbd.gov.uk

Phone: 020 8227 3881