Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour) on Wednesday, 11 January 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 January 2006. It was answered by Maria Eagle (Labour) on Wednesday, 18 January 2006 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Respite Breaks

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what information she collects on the (a) availability and (b) demand for respite breaks for parents of disabled children; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: The Department for Education and Skills does not collect this information directly. The Department uses the Shared Care Network National Survey."(a) The 2006 Shared Care Network survey (to be published later this year) identifies 128 short break schemes in the UK, with over 6,500 children using these services.""(b) The 1999 Shared Care Network survey found that 89 per cent. of schemes had a waiting list, with 3,736 children waiting for a service."

Secondary information