An unforgettable holiday for all
The Summer Camp is an inclusive, exciting and (inter)active holiday for people who have a disability. Wherever possible we link three volunteers per person, a level of support that ensures that anyone who wants to come can come, whatever their disability. For many this is the only holiday away from home and family they have. In turn, this means it’s the only week in the year where the relevant families can relax and have a holiday themselves.Rebecca (13): “When I go on the camp, Mum and Dad go to Cornwall. When they phone me some of the evenings I can tell them all the things I’ve done. They did not believe that I’d walked in the woods when it was dark and we only had a torch and we saw bats and a owl. So I put my volunteer Sarah on and she said it was true. They had to believe it. Now Sarah and me keep in touch – we write cards and emails. I would like to go on camp a lot more.”

What do we do on the camp?
Just about anything the participants take a fancy to. A day trip to the seaside, campfire evenings, treasure trails, sports and games, barbecues, lazing in the sun, swimming, forest walks, arts and crafts, pub visit… and whatever fun ideas you may have. We also take turns cooking for ourselves, a challenge that without fail becomes an enjoyable highlight.

Support
We divide ourselves into four groups, each supported by an experienced group-leader, and the camp-leader offers additional support wherever necessary. We make sure that volunteers can take breaks, which we know is vital to both the safety and overall enjoyment of the camp. This is an intensive week, you will get tired even with taking breaks. But last years’ volunteers ensured us “It’s a good tiredness, because it’s enjoyable and you get a real sense of achievement. And the splendid atmosphere just keeps you going”. Prior to the camp there are two full training days for volunteers; in addition families meet and brief volunteers around the specific needs of the person they’re linked with.

See photos of our activities here.

“The camp is both the most exhausting and best thing I’ve ever done. The camaraderie and good will was so refreshing. I really enjoyed my time with Rebecca and my fellow volunteers. I keep in touch with all of them. By the way, now I’ve started my social work course I realise just how excellent the training before the camp was, and how valuable the experience of the camp itself. See you next Summer!”
Sarah (Volunteer)

Where and when?

The next camp is currently scheduled for August 2014 at a field studies centre in Surrey. We sleep in dormitories. The centre offers playing fields, nature trails, a clay pit and art room, a rope course, swimming pool, maze, shelter-building in the woods…. it’s a lovely place.

The Summer Camp 2014 will most likely be the last week of August 2014 (subject to change).

If you’re looking for something to do this summer do take a look at our Social Development Project.

Volunteer Training Sessions, held in North London.

Travel & expenses

We offer travel expenses and provide transport from the meeting point in North London to the camp and back.

Volunteers only need to bring pocket money for themselves, everything else is paid for.

Please note minimum age for camp is 18 years.