Short breaks and fun activities

Short Breaks are fun activities for children/young people with SEND.

Leeds City Council provides a range of Short Breaks for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). These breaks also support parents, carers, and families.

The aim is to make sure children and young people with SEND are supported well and that families get the help they need.

Leeds City Council works in these ways:

  • They listen to children and take their views seriously.
  • They use a kind and fair approach when working with families.
  • They look at the needs of the whole family, not just one person.
  • They offer help early, before problems get bigger.
  • They support children and young people to join in with local community life where possible.

Short Breaks are fun activities for children and young people with SEND. These activities help them:

  • enjoy themselves
  • spend time with friends
  • feel confident
  • learn new skills
  • stay safe

Short Breaks also help parents and carers. They give families a chance to rest and take a break from caring.

The law says local councils must provide support like Short Breaks. This helps parents and carers continue to care for disabled children and helps them do this in a healthy and supported way.

Read the full short breaks statement here


Short Breaks Statement - Easy Read
 

Click here for a list of fun activities for young people in Leeds.

Click here to register your interest for a Short Break. 

Short breaks and fun activities

Short Breaks Offer in Leeds

Short breaks give children and young people with special education needs or disabilities (SEND) the chance to have fun and socialise away from home.

Who is eligible

Short Breaks in Leeds are available to children and young people who:

  • have a special educational need or disability
  • are aged between 0 and 18 years old
  • live in Leeds

Types of short breaks

In Leeds there are lots of different short breaks to give children with SEND a chance to try new experiences, have fun and make friends. They also give families the chance to enjoy a break from their caring responsibilities.

Universal clubs
Universal clubs offer children with SEND the opportunity to join sport or youth groups. Find your local group on the Leeds Local Offer.

Specialist short breaks
Specialist short breaks are for disabled children with the most complex needs. To apply your child must have a social worker. You will need to contact them and ask for an assessment.

Targeted short breaks
Targeted short breaks are for children with specific SEND needs. Short breaks include:

  • weekends away
  • holiday activity schemes
  • residential and evening activities

Register your interest for a short break

If you would like your child to take part in a targeted short break, you will need to register your interest by completing our online form.  

Contact: 


 

Catalogue of short breaks and fun activities

Catalogue of short breaks and fun activities

This catalogue lists in detail fun activities and short breaks currently available to children and young people aged 0-18 in Leeds.

click here to download the Short Breaks and Fun Activities catalogue 2025/26

If you would like your child to access a targeted short breaks / fun activity please complete the expression of interest form.