Plans revealed for short break centre in Sunderland after end of respite care at Grace House

People with special needs and disabilities and their families in Sunderland look set to benefit after plans were submitted for a new short-break and day care home in the city.

Together for Children (TfC), which delivers children's services on behalf of Sunderland City Council, has submitted a planning application for a new centre at Red Gables, a five-bedroom detached property in East Rainton.

It comes after the loss of respite care services at Grace House, which ended in November, and strong campaigning by the families affected.

The building was purchased for TfC by Sunderland City Council, with the acquisition approved by the authority's cabinet of senior councillors in October 2023.

The total cost of the purchase and conversion is anticipated to be around £1.708m.

Subject to the planning process, design and fitting out works, and permissions from children’s services watch-dog Ofsted, it is hoped the property’s conversion could be completed and hosting its first children and families by autumn 2024.

TfC said as a centre for daytime outreach, group activities and short breaks, the property has extensive grounds with ample space for play and development, and can offer other services including therapy, overnight care and also host events.

External alterations in the planning application include making the property accessible for wheelchair users (ramps, low threshold doors, automatic doors etc) and adding new fencing around the garden.

Internal alterations are necessary to suit the needs of users and plans include adding accessible bathrooms and an enlarged bathroom with specialist equipment. Plus a new kitchen, sensory room, office and new finishes. 

The council's Cabinet Member for Children, Learning and Skills, Councillor Linda Williams said: "We believe Red Gables is an ideal property and opportunity to provide our new high quality short-term break provision.

"As we go through this planning process, we’ve outlined how we want to make it a homely and outdoor space providing breaks. This is alongside helping children and young people to learn, have fun, socialise and gain independence in a supportive and comfortable environment."

Families that use SEND services are to be consulted about the outdoor space and facilities, subject to securing all the necessary permissions for the conversions and adaption works in and outside the property.

Jill Colbert OBE, chief executive of TfC, said: "We’ve begun speaking to families about our exciting plans for Red Gables. Our vision for Red Gables is to create a nurturing environment for children while families are given a chance to recharge and knowing their children are happy and in safe hands.

"We will be continuing to work alongside families as we look to make Red Gables the best it can be and continue to make real and positive differences to all families in Sunderland."

A decision will be made on the planning application in the coming months.

Sunderland Liberal Democrats leader Paul Edgeworth said: “This announcement will be better late than never for the disabled children and their families who have faced unimaginable disruption, upheaval and frustration at the withdrawal of the service provision from Grace House through absolutely no fault of their own.

“Despite the fact that they still face months without a proper respite service, the end to this sorry fiasco is finally in sight thanks to the tireless campaigning of the families affected.

“Given the way things have played out in recent months, Lib Dems are now urging Sunderland council bosses to not only get the new facility up and running as quickly as possible so young people can benefit from short breaks again - but to do everything they possibly can to inform and involve families every step of the way as the new property and service is developed.

"This will be vital if the council is to re-gain the trust and support of those who will rely on the new short break facility at East Rainton.”