For a number of years 1st Walsall Wood Scout Group has run a Summer family camp, this is open to all children and parents across all the Scouting group - Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers.

My Experience of Family Camp

My first family camp was in 2017 when my daughter joined Beavers. I will openly admit that when Louise first said she had booked it, my first thought was “can i get away with ducking out of this”, however I went along, under duress, and much to my surprise we had a brilliant weekend.

Over the weekend, there were a number of factors that changed my opinion:

Firstly, its camping but not hardcore camping! There is a hut with a full catering kitchen and all the usual utensils, large sinks for washing up with hot and cold water along with a seating are to eat. There are showers (admittedly its not like having one at home) but they were above the standard I was expecting.

Secondly everything is sorted and organised! Lee and the team thought of EVERYTHING, from food and condiments to all the activities. The only thing needed, as a family, is a tent (you can borrow one if necessary), sleeping bag (and an airbed if your soft like me).

Thirdly, and most importantly, I got to spend time with and get to know the leaders and other parents and children who Jessica spends her time with, every week. Seeing the leaders interact with the children and how the children work well together gives me confidence to not worry when Jessica is on any scouting activity, in the future..

When the letter came out in 2018, we had no hesitation to book it. Once again, we had a fantastic time, with children and adults making new friends and taking on new challenges. Activities such as tree climbing, archery and caving give the children the chance to try new things they may not get a chance to try normally. Watching strangers meet on the Friday evening and leave as friends on Sunday afternoon is priceless. Having been blessed with great weather this year meant that during free time, the parents could enjoy relaxing whilst the kids played and made great friendships. The children constantly encourage each other to conquer their fears during the activities, being supportive and working as a team.

So why I set up this page.

Due to a very low uptake over the last few years the Scout group have made a loss of around £300 a year which takes hard earned money from a very limited budget which could be spent on fun activities for all.

It was suggested that 2018 would be the last family camp as the group could not justify making this kind of loss. Whilst on camp this year, we all decided it would be a shame for children to miss this great opportunity. We all loved it and want to see more people benefitting from the experience Family Camp has to offer. At the same time, I want to demonstrate, to other group families/parents how strongly we all felt about family camp and try and encourage more to join future events.

How we raise the money

So this is not me just with my hand outstretched. I am willing to put myself out in return for sponsorship. My first main event is the Birmingham half marathon on 14th October 2018. Those of you that know me will recognise that I am built more for comfort than speed so as I start training and taking on a few smaller events, during the training, I will keep you updated on my progress.

Thank you for your time reading this. All sponsorship, however large or small, will be appreciated and will go towards helping the children make memories and build friendsships.

Thank you

Stuart