Action plan for short breaks provision in response to LGO findings

In November 2023, The Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) published a public interest report into the provision of short breaks, on behalf of all children and young people in South Gloucestershire.

Short breaks allow families of children and young people with specific needs the chance to take a break from their caring responsibilities.

The LGO report found that, whilst recognising difficulties in identifying providers and personal assistants, and that the organisations and respite centre the Council commissions have staffing and capacity issues, there was a failure by South Gloucestershire Council to provide the agreed support packages.

South Gloucestershire Council fully accepts the findings and recommendations of the ombudsman, and sincerely apologises for the shortcomings in the service provided to these young people and their families. 

A high-level action plan has now been published which to aims help to address the outstanding issues and enable South Gloucestershire Council to meet its commitments.

This action plan will be regularly updated and the latest version published on this webpage.