3rd May 2023

• Sheffield City Council is now accepting applications for the Short Break Grant. The purpose of the grant is to give parent carers a break from their additional caring responsibilities. You can apply for up to £400 per family.

  The deadline for applications for the 2023/24 Short Break Grant is 31 March 2024. You will be asked to provide the approximate date that your Short Break Grant will be spent and you must keep receipts.

  Who can apply?

  You can apply if you meet all of the following criteria:

  • Your child has a disability and receives a high rate component of DLA or an enhanced rate component of PIP*;
  • Your child is under 18 years of age;
  • You are in receipt of means-tested benefits OR your family household income** is less than £21,000 a year;
  • You do NOT already receive a short break service (e.g. SNIPS club or befriending, overnight respite) or direct payment for this child.

  *If your child does not receive high rate DLA or enhanced rate PIP you can still apply, but you will need a relevant professional who knows your child and your family to complete and sign an “Impact Information Form” which explains your child’s disability and how this affects your whole family.

  **Your household income consists of the income from everyone, aged 18 and over, who lives in the household, and includes Child Tax Credits. DLA and PIP do NOT count as part of your household income.

  How to apply

  If you believe you are eligible, then your first step is to complete a Household Income Assessment by calling 0114 273 4567 (choose option 4, then option 6).

  When you receive confirmation that you are eligible to apply for the grant, download the application form and guidance notes from the council website.

  Do not send in an application until you have completed the Household Income Assessment.

  It will take around six weeks to process your application. Once complete and accepted, the money will take three to five working days to reach your account.

  More information

  For top tips on completing the application form, please see our article.

  If you have any queries or need help to apply, please contact Ashley Gray (SNIPS / Children with Disabilities Team) on 0114 2375368 or email Ashley.Gray2@sheffield.gov.uk