Short Breaks provide specialist care and support for disabled children and young people—giving them access to safe, inclusive activities, while offering parents and carers valuable time to rest and recharge.

In 2023, ND Hub Gloucestershire CIC was awarded £70,000 through our Short Breaks fund. ND Hub spoke with a family who have been taking part in their activities to find out what difference it has made in their lives.

Amaka’s Story (names have been changed)

“I’m Amaka, a single mum of four incredible children—Chinedu (14), Ife (10), Adaeze (7), and baby Tobechi (18 months). They’re lively, bright,

I’d heard about short breaks and respite from other families. For years, I tried everything to get support. I spoke to social workers, contacted the special needs school two of my children attend, filled out endless forms—but nothing ever happened. I was constantly told to wait or passed from one place to another.

That all changed when I went to a Special Educational Needs (SEN) fair and found out about ND Hub Glos. They were talking about a new ‘test and learn’ Short Breaks programme. For the first time, someone invited me to refer my own family. There were no long waits and no confusing steps —just a real conversation about my children and what we needed. I finally felt listened to.

The support plan that the ND Hub made for us, didn’t just focus on the children—it included me too. It was thoughtful, creative, and based on our real lives.

Chinedu, my oldest, was matched with another group through the programme. He got the chance to enjoy his love of music and tech— instead of always being the big brother helping at home. His confidence grew, and he felt seen for who he really is.

Ife started with one-to-one sessions built around what he likes. It was the first time he could connect at his own pace, without pressure to fit in. As he became more settled, he joined small groups—but always with the choice to go back to one-to-one if he wanted. Being understood like that meant the world to him.

Adaeze found a group where she didn’t feel different—just included. She laughed, played, and made friends. She said, ‘Mummy, they get me.’ Her face lights up when it’s time to go to her sessions.

Even baby Tobechi had a place to go—sensory play sessions where I could stay close at first. I needed time to feel comfortable leaving him. Slowly, I started taking small breaks —just long enough for a cup of tea or a quiet moment to breathe. Knowing he was safe gave me a peace of mind I hadn’t felt in years.

What has been most special is having space to spend one-on-one time with each child. I could read stories with Tobechi, paint with Adaeze, and have real chats with Chinedu. I hadn’t realised how much I missed that.

This support has changed our lives. My children are happier, more confident, and more connected. And I finally have moments to rest and remember who I am, beyond being a full-time carer. For the first time, I feel like someone truly saw us—not just our struggles, but our strengths. We’re not just surviving anymore. We’re thriving.”