Bristol aims high for disabled children this half term

Families with disabled children will be getting a much needed break this half term as they take part in a special activity holiday.

This week, 26 people will be taking part in activities including archery, swimming and canoeing at a residential centre in Avon Tyrell.

The breaks are part of the national project Aiming High for Disabled Children and is being supported by Bristol City Council and NHS Bristol.

Both are working in partnership to offer short breaks and  increase the opportunities available for disabled children and their families.

Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Councillor Clare Campion-Smith, said: “Short breaks mean parents of disabled children are able to have a break from the responsibility of caring for their child.  It reduces the risk of things getting too much for the family and allows time for parents to focus more on other brothers or sisters, or just have a rest.

“At the same time, the experience of going away for a few days gives the child or young person the opportunity to experience new environments and situations, building confidence and helping to develop new skills. I hope all the young people going to the New Forest this weekend have great fun.”

The Bristol  Aiming High for Disabled Children will also be introducing a further 40 new services over the next 12 months, to help provide disabled children in the area with more short holidays.

The partnership will be holding a free drop-in event at the Council House on 16 June, where parents and carers of disabled children will be able to find out more about the service.

The event will be running from 11.30am until 2pm.

For more information, phone 0117 352 1186.