The council is looking to overhaul short break services offered to disabled children and young people after some carers revealed they reached “crisis point” before help was offered.

Bucks County Council (BCC) admitted it is difficult to manage demand for overnight short stays in the face of limited funds, adding the current service is “unsustainable”.

New plans could see the number of residential breaks reduced, however BCC insisted services will not be cut “where there is an assessed level of need”.

Short breaks allow children with disabilities to spend time away from home and develop independence, which in turn allows their primary carers to have a rest from caring responsibilities.

However carers raised concerns there is a lack of information about short breaks available, meaning those struggling with their caring responsibilities had trouble finding the right support.

BCC has now launched a public consultation on how short break and respite services for both children and adult social care services are being delivered.

A report published on BCC’s website stated: “We recognise that our current short breaks offer is not sustainable. It is difficult to manage levels of demand for residential short breaks.

“This is not going to get easier with the financial constraints that local authorities and CCGs are facing, and expected growth in demand for services over the coming years.

“We want to provide services that are value for money and that meet both current and future need – and to make sure that the money we have for short breaks is spent where there is the greatest need.”

The report states the council wants to stop relying heavily on “building based” services, which could eventually result in a reduction in short breaks based in “overnight residential settings”.

Cabinet member for health and wellbeing at BCC, Lin Hazell, said: “Many carers need to have a break from caring so that they can work, keep in touch with family and friends, have time for their own interests, or simply to recharge their batteries.

“This time away from home can also be an opportunity for children and young people with disabilities or vulnerable adults to become more independent, learn new skills, make friends and connect more with their local community.”

People can share their views by taking part in the online consultation, or attend one of eight drop-in sessions held across the county during July and August.

BCC’s cabinet agreed to consult on the short break strategy at a cabinet meeting on June 18.

To take part in the consultation on children’s short breaks visit: https://democracy.buckscc.gov.uk/mgConsultationDisplay.aspx?ID=7387

For the survey regarding adult short breaks visit https://democracy.buckscc.gov.uk/mgConsultationDisplay.aspx?ID=7386

Drop-in sessions for adult short breaks will take place as follows:

  • Buckingham Community Centre -12.30 – 4.30 on July, 5

  • Aylesbury Library -12.30 – 4.30 on July 11

  • Seeley’s day centre -1.30 – 4.30 on July 18

  • Burnham Day Opportunity Centre - 12.30 – 4.30 on July 25

  • High Wycombe Library - 9.30 – 12.30 on August 2

Drop-in session for children and young people:

  • Teaching and Learning Centre (SEND IAS Boardroom), Ellen Road, Aylesbury - 9.30 - 12.00pm, July 2