News

Short Breaks Grant scheme 2018/19 now open

24th October 2018

TAGS short breaks consultation

  • Sheffield City Council is now accepting applications for the Short Breaks Grant. You can apply for up to £400 per family. The deadline for applications is 31 January 2019, and the activity must have taken place and the grant must be spent before 31 March 2019.

    Due to recent changes to the eligibility criteria for the grant, many families who previously received the grant may no longer be eligible. You can apply if:

    • 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 at the time of application and when you are going to use the grant;
    • You are in receipt of means-tested benefits** OR your family household income is less than £21,000 a year;
    • You do NOT receive any other short break or respite service or a Direct Payment for this child.

    *If your child does not receive high rate DLA or enhanced rate PIP you can still apply, but will need to ask a relevant professional (e.g. GP, Health Visitor, SENCO) who knows you and your child to fill in an “Additional Information Form”.

    **Qualifying benefits are: Income-based free school meals, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, Tax Credits (you must receive Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit), Housing Benefit, Universal Credit.
    Please note: 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.

    More information about the new criteria is available on the council website. 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 and then option 2).

    When you receive confirmation that you are eligible to apply for the grant please, download the application form and guidance notes from the council website. You can also email CYPF_shortbreakgrants@sheffield.gov.uk and they will post one to you.

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

    If you have any queries about the application process, please email CYPF_shortbreakgrants@sheffield.gov.uk or call 0114 273 6032.

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