Charity's respite breaks to be discontinued due to funding cut

Children with disabilities in West Yorkshire will no longer have access to overnight respite breaks provided by a local charity after funding was withdrawn by the council. For 22 years, the Aireborough Supported Activities Scheme (ASAS) has offered residential breaks for young people with complex health needs and special educational requirements.

Leeds City Council recently reviewed its funding for respite services, deciding to prioritize "more regular, accessible, and locally delivered" support rather than residential stays.

Jo Galasso, project manager at ASAS, warned that this change will have a significant impact on families. "These breaks are essential for families who need a chance to rest and recharge," she said. "Siblings also benefit as parents can focus on time with them or simply recuperate from their caring responsibilities." She expressed concern that many children may no longer qualify for council-supported overnight respite care.

Laurie, a 12-year-old with autism and severe learning disabilities, has benefited from ASAS weekends in the past. His mother, Charlotte, explained that his unique needs make it difficult to find suitable overnight care elsewhere. "When you have a child like Laurie, you learn a lot about their disabilities and how they experience the world," she said. "Accessing care outside of familiar providers is very challenging and exhausting."

ASAS residential breaks typically include activities such as adapted cycling, climbing, caving, canoeing, and gorge walking, all conducted at inclusive activity centres across Yorkshire. Laurie's father, Richard, highlighted the importance of these breaks: "The charity has the staff, support, and expertise that Laurie needs. It also gives our family a rare opportunity to rest and recharge, which is essential for our well-being."

New Council Model for Short Breaks

Following consultation with families, young people, and providers, Leeds City Council introduced a targeted short breaks program. The new model emphasizes weekend and school holiday sessions of at least four hours, delivered closer to home and tailored to individual needs. The council stated that this approach allows more families to benefit more frequently, particularly those facing access barriers or disadvantage.

The council acknowledged the value of ASAS services and indicated that collaboration with the charity would continue under the new framework. ASAS will continue to receive funding for activity days and holiday play schemes until March 2026, but the final overnight respite weekend planned for the same month will depend on securing alternative funding.

Author: Harper Simmons