Continuity confirmed for Tollemache Road short breaks

Families who rely on short breaks at Tollemache Road can be reassured that the service will continue over the next year, providing stability and peace of mind for adults with learning disabilities and autism, and the carers who support them.  

Wirral Council has agreed a 12‑month interim contract with the current provider, Sanctuary Supported Living Services, which will allow the service to continue while work progresses on redesigning Wirral’s wider short breaks offer. This means families can be reassured that planned respite at Tollemache Road will remain in place during this period. 

Short breaks play an essential role in supporting carers, giving them time to rest, recharge and maintain their caring role safely. For many people who use the service, familiar environments and known staff are also vitally important. Maintaining the service at Tollemache Road helps avoid disruption at a time when the Council is planning for longer‑term change. 

Tollemache Road is a well‑established service, rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission, and feedback from families has been consistently positive. The interim arrangement ensures this trusted support continues while the Council completes a full recommissioning of learning disability and autism short breaks, due to be introduced from November 2026. 

Looking ahead, the Council is developing a new Short Breaks and Day Opportunities Framework, designed with people who use services, families and carers. The future offer is expected to provide more choice and flexibility, including activity‑based breaks, in‑home support, short holidays and enhanced direct payments, alongside a continued residential option. 

While change is planned for the future, the focus for now is on stability, reassurance and continuity. Families will continue to be involved as plans develop, and the Council is committed to making sure short breaks remain safe, reliable and responsive to what people tell us matters most.