Short breaks service provider to stop, due to staff pressures

Staff pressures, a lack of social workers and an increased work load have led a service provider to pull out of offering States short breaks.

New Horizons provide short breaks for children with disabilities, but say they will not reapply for their Health Department contract once it expires at the end of May.

Anthony Evans, from the organisation, says it was a 'difficult decision', but as they look after children with complex needs, they need to ensure they meet safeguarding requirements.

It comes as charity Les Amis have also pulled their services, saying the island's care sector is 'on brink of crisis'.

The 'short breaks' respite service was launched by the Health Department after a £250,000 investment in 2014.

Up to 50 families were able to use the service, with the choice between breaks at Centrepoint Trust, Les Amis, Autism Jersey and New Horizons.

The children have the chance to participate in a range of social activities such as clubs, sports activities, trips to the beach or attending after school and school holiday club sessions.

New Horizons' adult services are not affected by this decision.