Children’s Residential Short Breaks Service

Who we are

We are a joint team of Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust and KCC staff who support five children’s residential short breaks units located across Kent. We provide overnight short breaks to children from five to 18 who have learning disabilities, social communication disorders, complex health needs and challenging behaviour.

Children receive specialised educational provision and each unit has a practice educator nurse who ensures staff are adequately trained and competent to deliver clinical care to the children using the service. We support children 24 hours a day, seven days a week and only close at Christmas and for two separate weeks a year for staff training in March/April and September/October. We also work with charities such as Barnardos.

What we do

After taking a referral from the child’s social worker we create a comprehensive care plans that begins with introducing the young person to the service and builds up to overnight stays. Children usually stay for two to four-night blocks and are encouraged to participate in a range of activities.

Each of the units is equipped with a range of facilities, including soft play room, sensory room, a spa pool, safe and accessible outside spaces, equipment and gardens, large play rooms for craft activities, games and toys. Three of the units have children’s ICT rooms.

We aim to provide homely and welcoming breaks in an environment which encourages children to have fun, grow and develop, aided by clear boundaries and a consistent approach.

How do you use this service?

You can get in touch using the information here or talk to your healthcare professional. Referral is via your child’s social worker from the Disabled Children’s Service.