"It’s been one of the best things we’ve ever done"

01 September 2023

That was the verdict of one family member who went on the recent Short Break – organised by SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity and sponsored by Annington – at Calvert Trust’s Lake District site.

SSAFA’s Short Break scheme caters for serving – including reservist – families who have a child with an additional need or disability, be it developmental, emotional, behavioural, physical, or any combination of these.

Short Breaks, which are free to those attending them, are an opportunity for families to spend quality time together, to try fun adventure activities and to meet other Forces families in similar situations. UK military housing provider Annington sponsored the entire cost – some £45,000 – of this break.

Calvert Trust Lake District, and its sister site on Exmoor, offer adapted and inclusive opportunities for adventurous activities including kayaking, rock climbing, horse-riding, and archery for all abilities.

Fran Robinson, SSAFA’s Service Manager Additional Needs and Disability, said: “Due to the needs of our families, we often find that many struggle to find activities they can all do together, let alone find a break away. These breaks give families just that; they are a chance to escape the ‘day-to-day’.

“All family members can participate in adventure activities together, no matter what the need and most importantly, they are chance for families to meet others in similar situations, to share experiences and support each other.”

Fran continued, quoting one of the visitors, who told her “I can’t convey just how positive the experience has been and how grateful we are. We wouldn’t have been able to go on holiday otherwise and the difference it’s made it huge.”

Another parent added: “I can’t convey just how positive the experience has been and how grateful we are [to SSAFA and Annington]. We wouldn’t have been able to go on holiday otherwise and the difference it’s made it huge.”

A third simply said: “This holiday has enabled me to do so much with the children. I feel a better parent.”

Helen Liddell, Chair of Annington, commented: “Funding SSAFAs Short Breaks has been a central element of our overall support for military families this year.

“Having had the pleasure of meeting so many of the families, the impact of a holiday at Calvert Trust was very clear to see. For Service families who have a child with a special need or disability, accessing additional support can be difficult and add to the challenges of life as a military family.

“The benefits of SSAFA’s Short Breaks programme speak for themselves and we are delighted to have helped this very deserving group create some very happy memories.”