Firstly, thank you to the participants, their families, Active Connections staff and the support of the HSE. Because of your support young people living with an additional challenge like a physical disability, an intellectual disability or a neurodivergent diagnosis like autism, had the opportunity to engage in a 1:1 supportive, non-judgmental, fun outdoor activity camp during the strangest summer in living memory.
105 young people across the south east of Ireland engaged in the “Embers Summer Camp '', a summer-based day services commissioned by the HSE CH05 Disability Services.
Subsequent to the camp all parents and participants were given the opportunity to complete a feedback form, with a 77.7% respondent rate. Parents and partakers were asked a range of questions including, but not limited to enjoyment levels, expectations, self-esteem and confidence improvement, physiological benefits, to see if they would like to see the camp continue. The majority of respondents strongly agreed with the questions they were asked, with 100% stating they “would use the outdoor education camp if available yearly”.
What one parent had to say.
“Our son really enjoyed the Active Connections Summer camp. It was such a great respite alternative as it really suited his needs due to the fact it was outdoors and a lot of water-based activities. The camp really had a positive impact on our son’s mood, helped him regulate and improved his sleep pattern. The staff were so friendly and welcoming, and also adhered to COVID regulated guidelines which are currently in place. It would be great to have access to this service again, such a great alternative to the usual type of respite provided to families”.
If you would like to read more about what the wonderful participants and their families had to say about the Embers summer camp and see their responses to our ten questions upon completion of the camp check out the “Summer camp reports 2020” file attached to this piece.
Quote of the day: There is no WIFI in the forest, but you’ll find a better connection.