Children's service

We care for babies, children and young adults with progressive, life shortening conditions from across the north east.

Our team of skilled staff provide residential short breaks to local families. Up to six children and young adults can stay at any one time in our relaxed, home-from-home environment.

They can enjoy a range of fun activities such as:

Sensory play

Music therapy

Arts and crafts Baking

Trips out, e.g. bowling, cinema

Complementary therapy

Having respite at St Oswald’s for a couple of nights a month helped to give me a break. While I was doing all the medical care for my son, I couldn’t be a mum. Being at St Oswald’s gave me time to step back and just enjoy playing with him and having fun.

Find out about referrals to our Children and Young Adults Service

Children from birth to 18 can benefit from short breaks here. Teenagers benefit from their own living area – complete with games consoles, wide screen TV and PC’s.

We also care for young adults aged 18 – 25 in designated, age-appropriate facilities.

Families can choose to have a break together or their child can stay on their own with us. We provide support for the whole family, including brothers and sisters.

If you’re a family already benefiting from our services, visit our Family Zone.