Our CEO, Michelle King, and Head of Development, Emily Colley, were honoured to attend the launch and represent Little Miracles on what was a genuinely exciting and important day for the children’s respite sector.

This new national body brings together twelve independent charities from across England and Wales, all delivering vital respite services for children with disabilities and their families. While each organisation remains rooted in its local community, the Association creates a powerful opportunity to collaborate nationally — strengthening standards, sharing learning and speaking with one united voice.

Why Respite Is So Important

At Little Miracles, we know just how critical respite support is — because we see its impact every day.

Families caring for children with disabilities or life-limiting conditions often do so around the clock. The emotional, physical and financial pressures can be immense. Respite is not a luxury — it is essential. It allows parents and carers time to rest, to focus on siblings, to maintain relationships and, simply, to breathe.

But respite is just as important for the children themselves.

For many of the children we support, respite services provide safe, inclusive spaces where they can build friendships, grow in confidence, develop independence and experience joy. These opportunities are not “extras” — they are fundamental to wellbeing, development and belonging.

As demand for support continues to rise and funding pressures increase across the country, protecting and strengthening children’s respite services has never been more important.

Stronger Together

The Association of Children’s Respite Providers has been established to enable collaboration across the sector. Member charities will:

• Share information and resources

• Benchmark and strengthen standards

• Promote best practice

• Explore national fundraising opportunities

• Increase visibility of respite services

• Influence policy and decision-makers

By working together nationally, while continuing to serve families locally, we can help ensure children’s respite services are properly recognised, supported and sustained for the future.

Our CEO, Michelle King, said - 

“We’re really proud to be part of the Association of Children’s Respite Providers. We know there’s a lot of disparity in respite services across the country, and families don’t always get the support they need. By working together, sharing best practice and learning from each other, we can create a stronger, more consistent offer so that all families and children can benefit from high-quality respite, no matter where they live.”

Looking Ahead

We are genuinely excited about what this means — not just for Little Miracles, but for families across the country. Collaboration at this level sends a strong message: children’s respite matters, families matter, and this sector deserves recognition and investment.

We look forward to working alongside fellow member organisations to strengthen support, share expertise and ensure that no family feels alone.

Click here to find out more about the Respite Services that Little Miracles Charity provides.