Westmorland and Furness Council release plans for a “short break” service
A short break is a short term, temporary service “for people who are usually supported in their own or the family home by a family member or friend who is not paid for their caring tasks”
Plans have been published detailing a Westmorland and Furness Council contract for a “short break” service.
A short break is a short term, temporary service “for people who are usually supported in their own or the family home by a family member or friend who is not paid for their caring tasks”, according to the tender published on 15 August.
They are usually complementary to other services available to those with learning disables and/or autism and carers.
A short break service can have a significant impact on an individual’s independence and wellbeing as it allows a carer and their recipient to spend some time apart.
The council is “seeking to develop a long-term strategic partnership” with a sector leading partner that has a “deep understanding” of the needs of people with learning disabilities and has “values led with a mission, purpose and ethos which is aligned to those of the wider council”.
As the service is currently out to tender, the price may vary following the process. However, it is likely worth more than £300,000 per year.
Westmorland and Furness are looking for a provider who “will provide a level of support which is appropriate to the needs of the individual helping to support people to live active, healthy, socially responsible, and socially inclusive lives as part of their local communities.”
Any contractors would need to be registered with the Care Quality Commission, a social care watchdog, for at least 12 months and must able to maintain a rating of “good” throughout the contract.
According to the tender page: “Although the council will award the contracts to a single provider or providers, lead provider sub-contracting consortia bids are also welcome.”
The council are also looking more an “ecologically aware” provider who are active in “minimising waste”, “conserving energy and water” and other eco-friendly practices.
The contract is estimated to run from 20 January 2026 to 19 January 2028, with possibility of an extension to 19 January 2029.