Support for Families: Targeted Short Breaks (TSB) Allowance 

We know that children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) benefit from joining in with clubs, activities, and spending time in the community. These experiences help them grow, have fun, and make friends, and they also give parents and carers a well-deserved break. 

To support this, Herefordshire Council offers the Targeted Short Breaks (TSB) Allowance, a financial scheme designed to help families access these opportunities. 

What Is the TSB Allowance? 

The TSB Allowance provides funding to help pay for leisure or activity-based experiences for your child. It’s given via a pre-paid card, which you can use to pay for eligible activities such as: 

• Sports clubs 

• Arts and crafts sessions 

• Community groups 

• Holiday activities 

It’s all about helping your child enjoy new experiences while giving you, as a carer, some time to rest and recharge. 

Who Can Get It? 

Your child may be automatically eligible if: 

• They are aged 4–17 

• They have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) at SEN Tariff D or above 

If your child is aged 0–17 and either doesn’t have an EHCP or has one at Tariff A–C, you can still apply under special circumstances. You’ll need to provide supporting evidence (like reports from school or health professionals) to explain why extra support is needed. 

What Happens Next? 

If your application is approved: 

• You’ll receive a pre-paid card with the funding loaded onto it. 

• You can use it to book and pay for eligible activities. 

• You’ll need to keep receipts or booking confirmations in case the Council asks for them later. 

There are some terms and conditions, including things the funding can’t be used for — these will be explained when you receive the card. 

How to Apply 

If applying under special circumstances, you’ll need to include evidence such as: 

• School or health reports 

• Diagnosis letters 

• Statements from professionals 

Applications are reviewed by the Short Breaks Resource Panel, who decide whether the allowance can be granted. 

Need Help or Want to Know More? 

If you think your child might qualify or you’d like help with the application: 

• Speak to Family Support Team at school

• Visit the TSB Allowance page on Herefordshire Council’s website 

Or contact the Short Breaks Team directly: 
 01432 260123 

https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/family-support/short-breaks-and-respite/targeted-short-breaks-tsb-allowance-scheme-for-send-children/