Help bring magic and mischief to children with long-term health challenges

Volunteer for Over The Wall Camp

Children’s charity Over The Wall Camp is seeking volunteers for its 2027 camps for children and young people with long-term health conditions, their siblings, and families.

Volunteers help provide a fun, safe, and supportive environment where children aged 8 to 17 years can rediscover the magic and mischief of childhood; try new things, meet new friends and reflect on all their achievements.

The majority of next year’s camps – Health Challenge Camps, Siblings Camps and Family Camps – will take place at the charity’s new forever home in Ockbrook, Derbyshire, as well as camps at Strathallan, Scotland.

No two days are the same on the 3-day and 5-day residential camps. Volunteers work together to deliver or support activities including arts and crafts, team games, campfires, archery, dance parties, and more.

In addition, thanks to Clinical Volunteers – qualified doctors, nurses, and paramedics – camps can safely accommodate children currently receiving treatment or experiencing health challenges for over 130 illnesses.

Over The Wall Camp is seeking volunteers bursting with energy, enthusiasm, and a great sense of fun to help them create the best possible experience for campers and their families.

Charlotte Gibson, Senior Volunteer Coordinator, said: “Volunteering with Over The Wall Camp is incredibly rewarding and worthwhile. Alongside learning new skills, increasing your self-confidence, and making lifelong friendships with other volunteers, you can make a big difference to the lives of children and young people, in a safe and magical environment.

“One of our volunteers told us, ‘I’m a better person because I’m involved in Over The Wall Camp. I’m happier, warmer, more smiley, more patient, and more relaxed because of the work that I get to do with this charity.”

“Another said: “I have genuinely had the best week at camp! I felt so welcome and supported by all the volunteers and staff throughout the week. Through giving my time, energy, skills and abilities to camp, I know I’m making a difference, and that’s epic!’

Volunteer roles include Teammates, Activity Leaders, and Clinical Volunteers.

“From bringing activities to life and being the spark that keeps the camp buzzing to providing home-from-home nursing and medical care, there really is a role for everyone at Over The Wall Camp”, Charlotte added.

“It’s a unique experience and we can’t wait to see your application to join us on camp!”

Full volunteer training and support are provided, as well as accommodation and food for the duration of the camp.

Volunteers must be aged 18 and above and will be asked to complete an enhanced DBS check for camps in England, or a PVG certificate for camps in Scotland. No previous experience working with children or young people is needed.

To find out more, head to the charity’s website: www.otw.org.uk/volunteer/