Basildon charity involved in parliamentary launch

A new national body, the Association of Children’s Respite Providers, was formally launched at the Houses of Parliament today, bringing together twelve independent charities providing vital respite services for children with disabilities and their families.

The launch is being hosted with the support of Mims Davies MP.

The Association has been established to enable collaboration across the children’s respite sector, allowing member charities to share information and resources, benchmark standards, promote best practice, explore national fundraising opportunities, and strengthen their collective voice to influence policy.

Children’s respite services play a critical role in supporting families, offering short breaks that benefit both children and their parents or carers. With demand rising and funding pressures increasing, the Association aims to strengthen the sustainability and visibility of this essential sector.

Member Charities:

• BOSP (Basildon)
• Children’s Respite Trust (Uckfield)
• Y Bont (Bridgend)
• Lily’s Place (Poole)
• BrighterDayz (Wigan)
• The Yard – Geeza Break (Parkhead)
• Little Miracles (Peterborough)
• Kangaroos (Wivelsfield)
• We Are Beams (Hextable)
• Marches Family Network (Hereford)
• Swings & Smiles (Thatcham)
• Grace House Sunderland)

Jodie Connelly, CEO of BOSP (Brighter Opportunities for Special People) in Basildon, said of the Association:

“There needs to be wider impactful change for children with complex disabilities, and their
families. By working together nationally while remaining rooted in local communities, we can
strengthen standards, share learning and ensure the importance of children’s respite services
is better recognised and supported.”

Aston spoke to Jodie Connelly, CEO of BOSP (Brighter Opportunities for Special People) in Basildon.