AN urgent appeal has been launched by The Children’s Trust in order to deliver critical day and overnight breaks for disabled children across Surrey.

For more than 30 years The Children’s Trust has provided a range of respite services for children with brain injury and neurodisability from across the UK, including short breaks, Saturday clubs and holiday clubs.

The charity, which has seen enquiries for its services almost treble in the last year, has launched The Little Break Appeal in a bid to raise £100,000 to provide vital respite to families to prevent them from reaching breaking point.

Families of children with a brain injury, who require around the clock care, describe having a break where their child’s medical needs are met as a crucial lifeline and something that’s becoming increasingly difficult to find.

Not only are short breaks essential ‘time out’ for parents who provide 24/7 care, they provide children with complex needs an opportunity to make new friends and participate in fun activities they may not be able to access at home.

Dalton Leong, chief executive at The Children’s Trust, said: “It should not be underestimated how important recuperation time is for families caring for disabled children who require round the clock care.

“We must make this as easy as possible for them and not something they need to fight for. The Children’s Trust is determined to help these families.

“We need to raise £100,000 so that we can ensure families get the support they desperately need. We urge you to support The Little Break Appeal.

“Parents of disabled children are under enormous strain; the little time afforded to them for respite is an absolute lifeline. Please help in whatever way you can. Thank you.”

Every year 40,000 children in the UK are left with a brain injury as a result of an accident or illness, while thousands more are born with or develop severe disabilities as a result of a degenerative condition.

Donations can be made online at www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk, or visit one of The Children’s Trust charity shops.