Yes — they do exist. And no, you’re not selfish for needing one.
Caring for a child with additional needs is rewarding — but it’s also exhausting. Financially, emotionally and physically.
Many SEND families haven’t had a proper break in years.
What most people don’t realise is that across the UK, there are charities and grant schemes that help fund holidays, respite breaks and days out specifically for families raising disabled children.
Here’s a clear guide to what’s available and how it works.
1. Family Fund
Family Fund is one of the largest UK charities supporting families raising disabled or seriously ill children.
They offer grants that can be used for:
- Family breaks and holidays
- Day trips
- Accommodation costs
- Equipment
- Essential household items
Eligibility usually includes:
- Low income or receiving certain benefits
- A child under 17 with additional needs
Applications are made directly through their website.
Website:
https://www.familyfund.org.uk
2. The Family Holiday Charity
The Family Holiday Charity helps families who have not had a holiday in a long time and are facing difficult circumstances.
Support includes:
- UK caravan park breaks
- Short family holidays
- Travel support
Important: Applications usually require a referral from a professional (school, social worker, health visitor, GP or charity worker).
Website:
https://familyholidaycharity.org.uk
3. The 3H Foundation
The 3H Foundation offers holiday grants to families with disabled members.
They typically:
- Contribute towards UK accommodation
- Pay the grant directly to the holiday venue
- Offer some carer-focused respite support
Grants usually range between £250–£550.
Website:
https://the3hfoundation.org.uk
4. Happy Days Children’s Charity
Happy Days Children’s Charity funds:
- Family day trips
- Short breaks
- Activity holidays
- Theatre experiences
They support children with additional needs and those living in financial hardship.
Website:
https://www.happydayscharity.org
5. The Adamson Trust
The Adamson Trust provides financial assistance towards holidays for disabled children under 18.
Website:
https://www.theadamsontrust.co.uk
6. Carers Trust
Carers Trust supports unpaid carers and may offer:
- Short breaks
- Respite grants
- Local carer services
Many areas have local Carers Trust branches — check your postcode.
Website:
https://carers.org
7. Local Authority Short Breaks
Under SEND legislation, local authorities must provide Short Breaks services for disabled children and their families.
This can include:
- Activity clubs
- Respite provision
- Funded outings
- Holiday programmes
Search:
“Short Breaks + your local council name”
These are often under-advertised but legally required.
Important Things to Know
• Many schemes require an application — and some require referrals
• Funding is limited, so apply early
• Not all are income-based — some focus on disability support
• You may need evidence of benefits or diagnosis
• Keep copies of supporting documents
And please hear this clearly:
Needing a break does not make you weak.
It makes you human.
Why This Matters
Carer burnout is real. SEND parenting is intense. And family memories shouldn’t be reserved only for those who can afford them.
There is help out there — but often you have to go looking for it.
If you know another parent who hasn’t had a holiday in years, share this with them.
Sometimes a few days away can reset more than you think.
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