Hi
The problem that many providers of respite short breaks is that for the past 2 years many voluntary organisations like resources for autism have had local funding to provide specialist breaks for disabled children. The government has given the same money again to local authorities BUT despite endless warnings has not 'ring fenced' this money. So local councils can in reality use it for anything which at a time of cuts means it may well (and appears to have) disappear into the general pot.
Most organisations are having to wind down as they have been told contracts will not be renewed. Resources for Autism are set to lose funding for specialist play and youth clubs and respite home support in Birmingham and London. If that happens many, many families will lose the couple of hours respite they get every week and the longer breaks available during school holidays. This is tragic. (angry)