Families enjoyed a magical summer adventure while spending time at a fully accessible campsite near Colchester.
The break took place at Camp JoJo, on Mersea Island, and was for those being supported by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
It gave them an opportunity to relax, make memories and enjoy outdoor activities together, with highlights including beach combing, rock pooling, a delicious barbecue and a fun-packed talent show.
Camp JoJo is a registered charity established by people with first-hand experience of parenting children with complex needs and disabilities. Its aim is to provide families with a fully accessible camping experience, while offering the practical and emotional support needed to make it a genuinely relaxing break.
Throughout the stay, families were supported by dedicated volunteers, with every family assigned a helper to assist during their visit and ensure everything ran as smoothly as possible.
The campsite features fully accessible tents tailored to individual families’ needs, including hoists where required, along with accessible shower, toilet and changing facilities.
Families enjoyed a wide range of activities, including bracelet-making, messy play with slime, sensory storytelling sessions and metal-detecting challenges.
There was also plenty of time to rest and unwind, with hammocks beneath the trees providing a peaceful spot to relax.
“I saw one mum sitting quietly reading her book,” said Clare Oakley, EACH’s Groups and Events Co-ordinator at The Nook, near Norwich.
“She told me it was something she hadn’t been able to do for such a long time.
“That really summed up what this trip was all about. There were lots of organised activities and opportunities for fun, but there was also space for families to slow down, relax and simply enjoy spending time together.
“As soon as we arrived, we were welcomed by happy, supportive volunteers who couldn’t do enough to help.
“Each family was paired with a volunteer for the duration of their stay, and the sense of fellowship and community they created was incredible.
“There was a magical, relaxed atmosphere throughout, and it gave families the chance to enjoy experiences and activities that many people might take for granted.
“Camp JoJo is a brilliant and very special place. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who made the trip possible, especially the wonderful volunteers whose kindness and dedication helped create such a memorable experience.”
