THE way the county council provides short breaks for people is being examined to make the services more accessible.

Short breaks give disabled children, young people and adults the opportunity to spend time away from their families or carers and take part in activities, including arts, leisure and sports.

Gloucestershire County Council has found that over the past five years the number of people that atttends its short break placements have fallen from 66 placements in 2008 to 25 in 2015 and there has been an increase in those wanting to do activities, like sport, drama, cooking or camping.

The authority has also recorded that there are now more than 1000 children and young people using community-based activity short breaks.

As part of the council’s approved Building Better Lives policy, which focuses on supporting people with a disability to have more independence and choice, the county council is asking people to several proposals, including increasing opportunities for disabled children, young people and adults to have a short break with a family.

Kathy Williams, cabinet member for long term care, said: “It’s really important that we find out what children, young people and adults with a disability, and their carers, really need and want from our short breaks.

“We know some people prefer a family setting, whilst others get more from specific activities within their communities. There still a need for residential places and we think Hartwood House can provide more than enough.

“We want to hear from people who use short breaks and those who provide them. I’d encourage anyone with an interest to tell us what they think as this will help us shape the future service.”

Feedback from the consultation will be presented to county council cabinet later in the year before any decisions are made on changes to the placements it provides.

For more information on the Building Better Lives policy, visit www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/buildingbetterlives