Sense Scotland provide residential short breaks to children and young people who have complex health and communication needs, physical and learning disabilites and ASD. They are keen providing support and breaks to children and young people in very rural and remote areas of Scotland, including Shetland0.

Ardlui House provides purpose built accommodation in Helensburgh and offers 2 bedroom accommodation with a sensory room, a range of specialist equipment and a large play area outside.

The organisation also has an accessible caravan based 20 minutes from the project where families can enjoy a break while their child / young person is being looked after.

For further information visit http://www.sensescotland.org.uk/what-we-do/support/taking-a-short-break/residential-breaks-helensburgh.aspx or contact Annmarie Carson, Registered Manager, Sense Scotland, T: 01436 670 197, M: 07794 072 404

Their Advisory Department can give advice about paying for the stay if you live outwith the Argyll and Bute area as well as information about what activities are available in the area. Contact them on 0141 429 0294.

SHORT BREAKS FUND

VAS continues to distribute funding received from Shortbreaks Scotland in order to assist carers with a chance to benefit from a Short breaks from their caring role.

There is currently a limit on the cost of sessions to allow as many carers as possible to benefit from the scheme. To start with, we are offering up to £150 per carer (on production of invoice or receipt), towards your chosen holiday, activity or therapy. This will be on a first come first served basis. Take up will be reviewed after six months and we will then feedback to carers. We ask you to complete a short evaluation after your break so we can report back to our funder how the grant has helped you in your caring role.

See our short breaks page for an application form

Ideas for your short break

Here is a brochure with further information and a list of some ideas for your short break, and we are open to your suggestions too. If you have your own idea of what you would find most beneficial let us know and we will try to accommodate it.