Charity celebrates 35 years of happy camping for needy children

Young campers in 1978 showing that even the washing up could be fun

A charity that has provided free holidays for thousands of Derby youngsters is marking its 35th birthday in 2008.

Derby Kids’ Camp was formed in 1973 when a group of volunteers took 15 children on holiday for the first time – with borrowed camping equipment and a budget of just £80.

Three-and-a-half decades later, the charity, still run by volunteers, now provides 250 eight-to-11-year-olds with a fun-packed week of camping in the Peak District every summer – at a cost of up to £35,000

Chairman Chris Edwards said that for many of the children, who are nominated by their schools, the camp is the only break they receive.

“When I first started out as a volunteer eight years ago I took part in home visits,” he said. “It really brought it home to me that just around the corner there are young people who really need a holiday.

“Some children are living with parents or carers that are ill. For their parents the camp is a relief as it gives them respite and in some cases means that their child doesn’t have to go into foster care.”

The camping holidays are funded by sponsorship, donations, fund-raising events and charitable trusts, and the charity needs to ensure that up to 150 adult volunteers are available for the five-week camping period.

Volunteer Elaine Johnson has been involved with the charity since 1984. The 48-year-old, of Opal Close, Oakwood, said she gets as much out of the trips as the children.

“It’s really good fun,” she said. “I’ve made lots of really good friends through doing it.

“I love working with children and being out in the countryside so volunteering for Derby Kids’ Camp is something I really enjoy.”

Miss Johnson, who is a teacher at Stanton Vale special school, said that seeing the difference the holidays make for the children is what draws her back each year.

She said: “At the beginning of the week they are quiet and unsure but they are all lively by the time they leave.”

If you are interested in helping out with the camps, send an e-mail to volunteers@derbykidscamp.co. uk or download an application form from the website at www.derbykidscamp.co.uk.

All DKC volunteers are subject to an advanced CRB police check prior to them being approved.

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