Amy's House

Where every child belongs.

Amy’s House provides short break sessions for children and young people aged 6 to 18 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, regardless of the complexity of their needs.

Our sessions are about much more than care. They give children the opportunity to play, explore, build friendships, express themselves, and enjoy the kinds of experiences every child deserves in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.

Amy’s House also provides an important break for parents and carers, who often have very little time to rest. While children are having fun and being supported by our team, families can take time to recharge, spend time with other children, or simply relax knowing their child is safe, happy, and well cared for.

At Amy’s House, every child is welcomed, valued, and free to be themselves.


When and where we run

Our short break sessions are held at our main site in Norfolk Park Sheffield, in a building which has been fully adapted to meet a wide range of needs.

Our sessions are from 10am to 3pm and we are open 33 Saturdays per year and 11 weeks during school holidays (Monday to Friday).

Each session welcomes up to 15 children and is supported by flexible staffing ratios, with team members trained to meet a wide range of individual needs. By working closely with families, we make sure every child receives the care, support, and structure that helps them feel safe, confident, and able to thrive.

Facilities

Our building is designed to give children the freedom to explore, play and enjoy a wide range of activities that promote wellbeing, creativity and fun. We have created a welcoming environment where children can feel safe, relaxed and inspired to try new things.

Inside children have access to:

  • A state-of-the-art sensory room

    Filled with calming lights, textures and sounds, our sensory room helps children relax, self-regulate and enjoy a soothing sensory experience

  • A peaceful calm room

    spend time away from busier group activities.

  • A large play and activity space

    Our main playroom offers plenty of space for creativity and fun, with themed crafts, toys, games, musical instruments and a variety of engaging activities.

  • A child-friendly kitchen

    Children can enjoy hands-on experiences preparing food, baking, cooking and washing up, helping to build confidence and independence in a safe and supportive environment.

Outside, our secure play area includes:

Our outdoor area provides additional space for children to play, explore and enjoy fresh air. The secure environment supports physical activity, social interaction and sensory experiences, giving children even more opportunities to have fun and express themselves in a natural setting.

  • Equipment

    Accessible bikes, scooters and trampolines. Equipment designed to encourage movement, confidence and active play for children of all abilities.

  • Seasonal activities

    Fun and engaging experiences including paddling pools, water play, bubbles, sand and messy play, creating exciting opportunities for exploration and creativity throughout the year.

  • A sensory garden and mud kitchen

    Spaces that support imagination, hands-on learning and connection with nature, helping children explore textures, sounds and natural materials.

  • Allotment

    Children grow herbs and vegetables that are used in our cooking sessions, helping them learn about nature, responsibility and healthy eating in a practical and meaningful way.

We’re proud to be fully inclusive and adaptable. Our building includes ramps, hoists and full accessibility throughout.

We also regularly take children offsite to explore woodlands, visit animal farms, and enjoy local parks. These trips help build confidence, encourage new experiences, and allow children to engage with the world around them.

If you’d like to find out more about our short breaks or you’re thinking about making a referral, we’d love to hear from you, call us on 0114 349 2920 or email lisa@amyshouse.org.uk

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I refer a child?

We welcome referrals from parents, carers, and professionals who feel a child or young person would benefit from the support we offer at Amy’s House.

Who can refer?

  • Parents or carers

  • Schools and SENCOs
  • Social workers
  • Health professionals (CAMHS, GPs, therapists)
  • Local authority teams

How to make a referral

1. Get in touch

Contact our team to discuss the child or young person’s needs:

Email: enquiries@amyshouse.org.uk

Phone: 0114 3492920

We’re happy to have an informal conversation first to make sure Amy’s House is the right fit and sign post you to Sheffield City Council short breaks ( known as SNIPs)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the session times? 

Our sessions run from 10:00am – 3:00pm.

Is there wheelchair access? 

Yes – Amy’s House is fully wheelchair accessible, and we aim to ensure all children and young people can access our provision comfortably and safely.

Are meals provided?

We provide snacks and drinks throughout the day. Families are kindly asked to provide a packed lunch for their child.

How much does it cost? 

Our provision at Amy’s House is typically funded through external sources, so there is often no direct cost to families.

Funding may come from:

  • Local Authority funding (e.g. EHCP packages, short breaks, alternative provision)
  • Schools or education settings
  • Social care teams
  • Personal budgets or direct payments

What age groups do you support? 

Children aged 6 years to 18 years old

Are you Ofsted Registered? 

Yes – Amy’s House is Ofsted registered and operates in line with all relevant safeguarding, welfare, and quality standards.