Support offered to youngsters

Core Children’s Services (CCS) working in partnership with West Sussex County Council has launched the new Inspire service.

This has been done in a bid to increase the range and number of short breaks available to local families with disabled children.

Jenny McRae, CCS project coordinator, said: “As a parent of a disabled child myself, I would urge families across West Sussex to use the free short breaks on offer.

“The Inspire service gives youngsters with disabilities a chance to take part in the activities they enjoy with some independence, and the short break also provides parents with time to recharge their batteries.

“Trained professionals tailor the one-to-one support so that each child gets the most out of the service.

“Whether they are accessing public transport, or being accompanied to community activities to meet and make new friends.”

CCS can provide support for children and young people with a range of disabilities including physical and learning disabilities and those on the autism spectrum.

Families are responsible for payment of the activity attended by the youngster, but the 12-week Inspire programme will be offered free of charge to some families.

They must be in receipt of medium- or higher-rate disability living allowance or following completion of a self-assessment form.

The programme will be funded for three years through West Sussex County Council’s short breaks programme.

For more information telephone 02380 291050.