Story
135 Years of Changing Children's Lives
For 135 years, Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre has been helping children discover the joy, freedom and wonder of a seaside holiday.
Since 1891, thousands of Derbyshire children facing poverty, family difficulties, bereavement, caring responsibilities, disability, or other challenges have been given the opportunity to escape their everyday worries and enjoy a few precious days by the sea.
Today, that mission is just as important as it was 135 years ago.
Why We Need Your Help
Many of the children we support have never had a holiday. Some have never seen the sea. Others are carrying worries that no child should have to face.
A holiday may sound simple, but for a child it can be transformational.
A week away means:
* Making new friends
* Building confidence and independence
* Learning new skills
* Having fun and feeling cared for
* Creating happy memories that last a lifetime
Most importantly, it gives children the chance to simply be children.
"I didn't want to come home. It was the best week of my life."
The Difference You Can Make
In 2026, we restarted our holiday programme and children are once again paddling in the sea, building sandcastles, exploring new places and discovering new confidence in themselves.
Every donation to our 135th Anniversary Appeal will help provide free residential holidays for Derbyshire children aged 6–11.
* £5 helps provide treats and activities
* £15 helps cover food and transport
* £32 a month can fund an entire holiday place over a year
* £380 can give one child a complete life-changing holiday
Looking to the Future
As we celebrate 135 years of service, we are not simply looking back at our history—we are building the next chapter.
With your support, we can ensure that many more children experience the magic of the seaside, the kindness of caring adults, and the opportunity to flourish.
Be Part of Our Story
Whether you donate £5 or £500, every gift helps create brighter futures for Derbyshire children.
Please support our 135th Anniversary Appeal today and help us continue changing lives for another 135 years.
Find out more about our work at [www.dchc.org.uk](http://www.dchc.org.uk).
Thank you for helping Derbyshire's children flourish.
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