I am taking a week away from my desk from 15 to 19 July to help a group of 18 adults with learning disabilities make the most of their summer holiday. I will be driving them and their volunteer carers around on a series of trips to a theme park, the circus (see above), ten pin bowling, the swimming pool, a local pub and anywhere else that we can afford.   But therein lies a problem as the extent and nature of the activities involved is entirely dependant upon the money that we can raise and Oxford and District Mencap are finding it particularly tough at the moment.   

These holidays provide a structure around which many of those involved (frankly) build their lives. This is very important work.

Each group is provided with an eagerly anticipated break packed with activities and marked by tears all around when it is over. They are also a means by which those carers left at home get to recharge their batteries whilst contemplating the efforts involved in surviving the year ahead.

I therefore need you to dig deep or consider the prospect of our minibus being turned away from our chosen activity.... leaving us to eat our packed lunches in the car park!