UNISON Welfare has once again teamed up with the YHA to offer financial support
for children to go on holiday to special activity camps this summer
We're all going on a summer holiday
Children from low-income families have the opportunity to go away
on special week-long activity camps this summer.
Funded by the Big Lottery Fund, and managed by the Youth Hostel Association,
the 'Do it 4 Real' camps offer a huge range of activities for 10-17 year olds living in England.
Circus skills, raft-building, making and starring in a music video... with 23 centres throughout the country there's something to suit every child.
The all-inclusive concessionary cost is between £25 and £199 per child, which covers
transport to and from designated pick-up points, activities, great food
and excellent accommodation running from Sunday through to Friday.
UNISON Welfare is offering further financial support to members on low incomes or in receipt of benefit. At the time of going to press the level of support had still to be determined, although last year the union was able to help out with a grant of up to £50.
Head of UNISON Welfare Julie Grant believes the vast majority of members
will be eligible for the scheme.
"It presents an ideal opportunity for members to send
their children away on a fun activity week," she says. "And with
our support, the children of those members on the very lowest incomes will have the chance
to have a week's activity break at nil cost"
Ms Grant wants all stewards and activists to get the word out about the
camps as soon as possible and inform anyone they think might be interested.
The first activity week starts on 22 July, and the scheme runs to 31 August,
so all bookings should be made as soon as possible.
Each camp lasts one week. They give children the opportunity to face new
challenges, learn new skills and grow in confidence.
Children will also have the chance to complete a journal during the week
which can be used to obtain credits towards an educational qualification
at school.
There are enough activities available to appeal to all children.
High octane action like abseiling, gorge scrambling and water sports
is on offer for adrenaline junkies. Alternatively, arts workshops will help develop a range of performance skills in budding film makers and actors, while a special survival-themed activity camp will enable children to learn about navigation, the climate, shelter-building and first aid.
The camps are designed for fun and adventure. All the instructors and
staff are fully qualified to provide the children with the necessary help
and support to make sure they get the most out of the week.
This scheme is only available for children living in England, but UNISON
Welfare offers family holidays throughout the UK on a year-round basis.
If you want to apply to send your children on an activity week or want
more information about UNISON Welfare's other services call 020 7551 1620
or email welfare@unison.co.uk. To save time have benefits and any income-related information to hand when you call.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Who will be looking after your child?
Children will be divided into groups of eight. Each group will have
a group leader to guide them through the week. The group leader
will be a role model and friend to your child, caring for their
wellbeing and ensuring their week at camp is fun and rewarding.
How are staff and activity instructors selected?
Staff are carefully selected for their qualifications, experience
and enthusiasm. Every member of staff is committed to your child's
enjoyment as well as their health and safety. Their commitment to
training ensures staff have the skills to cope with any situations
that arise. All group leaders are trained in first aid and will
be on call if anyone needs them. Everyone will have previous experience
of working with children and will have been subject to a Police
check. Where appropriate the activities we provide are delivered
by Adventure Activity Licensing Authority (AALA) licensed activity
providers.
What is a day at camp like?
08.00 Breakfast
09.30 Morning activities
12.30 Lunch
14.00 Afternoon activities
17.00 Free time
18.00 Evening meal
19.30 Evening activities
22.00 Lights out
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