HAMPSHIRE County Council has agreed proposals to re-shape the short breaks activities programme, so it can continue to offer good quality breaks within a reduced budget.

A total of nine proposals have been approved by Keith Manns, executive lead member for children’s services. Approval was also given to a new charging short breaks.

Mr Mans said: “Firstly, I would like to thank all those who responded to the public consultation held earlier this year, and those who made deputations at the children and young people select committee meeting.

“This has not been an easy decision to make and I am conscious the children and families this affects face particular challenges on a daily basis.

“However, I must ensure we are able to continue to meet our statutory duties and we can do so at a time when council services are under pressure and finances are being squeezed.

“The programme will continue to offer a range of activities for children and young people with disabilities, enabling parents and carers to have a break from their caring responsibilities and have the opportunity to take part in education, training and leisure activities, complete day-to-day tasks or meet the needs of other children in the family.”

Overall, the changes to the programme will contribute £1million to the council’s £140million reduction in overall spending. The agreed proposals include:–

•To only fund short break activities for children who live in the authority’s area

•To commission short break activities against local priorities, co-produced with a parent panel

•To only fund short breaks that allow parents and carers to leave their child for the duration of the activity

•To cease funding short breaks for over 18s

•To cease funding swimming lessons

Responding to a request made by the children and young people select committee, Mr Mans asked his department to monitor the impact of the changes relating to funding for over 18s and the provision of swimming lessons and requested an update six months after the changes come into effect.