Back in 2017, we were fortunate to receive a grant from Children in Need which allowed us to host our first ever Family Weekend for our children and young people at Center Parcs in Sherwood Forest. 

It was the first time we had arranged anything like this, but what a weekend we had!  

Read our review of it, and check out the photos – some very young faces…

Last March, FOP families were able to enjoy a weekend at Center Parcs Sherwood Forest, thanks to funding from Children in Need.  It was a rare opportunity for children and parents to connect and share precious time with others who understood.

“On the first night there was a welcome event.  For many of us, the last time we’d seen each other was the Family Gathering so there was plenty of catching up to do.

It was a lively affair with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations adding to the atmosphere!  The children quickly remembered each other and played like old friends (with a few anxious parents watching from the sidelines!).

On Saturday morning, the children had the chance to take part in pottery painting.  Many took this opportunity to create a keepsake of their weekend.  Of course, the main attraction of the weekend was the amazing indoor pool: who wouldn’t want to spend the afternoon in a sub-tropical paradise in England?!!

Thanks to the generosity of Children in Need, our kids were also treated to another adventurous activity of their choosing: there were quad-bikers, teddy-bear makers, jet-skiers, den-builders, climbers, skidoo-ers to name just a few!

Saturday evening was the highlight of the weekend as we all came together and celebrated our uniqueness.  A children’s entertainer had the kids juggling, limbo-ing, dancing, and wearing funny hats, whilst we mums and dads sat an enjoyed a well-earned glass (or two!) of wine!

What was overwhelming and so, so evident, was the most wonderful feeling of community, friendship and strength.  The positive atmosphere of the weekend reaffirmed the knowledge that we’re not alone on this journey.

We had all been brought together by something we could never have imagined, yet we had all chosen to connect with others; to find the best way we can to live with FOP, to create the best opportunities and memories for our children: together we are stronger”.

We’re looking forward to arranging another of these weekends for our families very soon!