Re-imagining Short Breaks and Respite Care for Young People

Working closely with the Northants Healthcare NHS Trust, the Fleet team have reviewed the practical and emotive opportunities to improve the environment to house a vulnerable cohort for  short respite breaks.  The service users include disabled children and young people with disabilities including either a diagnosis of autism, complex health needs and/or complex behaviour.

The proposals sought to introduce more safety measures to the bedrooms while de-institutionalising and bringing in opportunities to personalise the spaces for each of the circa 72 children and young people using the facility annually.

At the core of the proposals was the need to open up the living and dining spaces to more natural light and the extensive gardens while, critically, still maintaining the physical flexibility staff require to support the residents.