Pen's Story

Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I feel very lucky to have four children and three grandchildren.  I think back fondly to the days we had when we took the children on holiday - it was part of their happy childhood.  Sadly not all children can say the same, it seems to be a sad reflection on Society that there are so many children needing the care and support that the Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre (DCHC) can provide. 

The children nominated for holidays are likely to come from homes where the impact of severe financial hardship, deprivation or abuse has created a situation where daily stress is all too common, and there are few comforts.  By providing quality residential holidays, the children are given a new start to their long term development, building self esteem and aspirations for which they would not otherwise have the opportunity.  The holiday programme and experience creates a positive environment, to which they are subsequently able to relate to within the daily lives and circumstances.  The Centre Managers regularly receive letters which speak of the enjoyment the holiday gave and of the improved relationships and attitudes that the children subsequently bring to their families and peer groups.  It costs £330 to send each child to the holiday centre. 

When I attended a ball in aid of the Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre in May, I was very impressed with what Bill Tomlinson, Chairman of the charity, had to say about the benefits the children gained.  He also read out some of the testimonials sent to him:

A child: 'Thank you for everything at DCHC, it was so great.  I would love to live there but you no that wouldn't happen, but theres me saying I'd love to live there, it wouldn't be the same without the tremendous help of the staff.'

A mum from Derby: 'A letter of thanks for my daughters holiday at the Skegness Centre.  She loved it and she came home non stop talking about it.  It has made a big impression on her life which I hope she will always remember.'

The Head of a Derby Primary School: 'The Holiday Centre is such a busy exciting place.  The staff are incredibly skilled in ensuring that everyone has a good holiday and that 'first timers' are supported and that older visitors enjoy something new.  Young people make new friends, they visit new places and every pupil here has always asked the same thing on their return - "When can I go again?"

A Social Worker Team: Social Care staff accompanied 15 children (to the Centre) who have difficulty in engaging with their peers and participating in community activities.  It was a pleasure to see these young people grow in confidence throughout the week, enjoying new experiences, meeting new friends and participating in new activities.  We are sure this experience will remain with them for the rest of their lives. 

Each year in October, the Romsey Rotary Club in Hampshire organise a fundraising event, Walk the Test Way.  All participants choose which charity they wish to support, and also the distance they will do.  Last year well over 500 walkers raised in excess of £60,000 for nominated charities - making over £400,000 to date.  The route chosen is beautiful and runs close to the legendry trout fishing River Test. 

I will be walking 16 miles this year, which I have never done before, and with your help I would like to raise £4620 in order provide holidays for 14 children.

Thank you for reading my story and for your support.

Pen