SUMMER KIDZ: First young campers set to experience charity’s forever home in Ockbrook

Credit: Over The Wall Camp

Over The Wall Camp is set to welcome its first campers at its new forever home in Ockbrook.

Hundreds of children with serious illnesses and disabilities are set for a summer of adventure, laughter and unforgettable memories at the charity’s new base at Ockbrook.

From the end of July 2026, children and young people aged eight to 17, alongside their siblings and families, will enjoy week-long and weekend residential camps at the newly transformed former Ockbrook School site.

Chief executive Kevin Mathieson said: “We want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped make this milestone possible.

“From generous funders and supporters whose financial contributions have helped bring our vision to life, to the many volunteers, contractors and partners who have worked tirelessly to transform the site – every contribution has played a part.

“Together, you’ve helped create a place where children with serious illnesses and disabilities can experience adventure, friendship and the magic of childhood. We couldn’t have done it without you.”

Over the Wall Camp is a UK charity founded in 1999 by the late Hollywood actor and philanthropist Paul Newman, repeatedly awarded ‘Outstanding Provider’ status by Ofsted.

Catering for more than 130 different health conditions, many of the children who receive support are in treatment regimes for lengthy periods and are often unable to engage in normal childhood activities, leaving them isolated, lonely, and vulnerable. Parents tell charity officials that they can feel overwhelmed and powerless watching their children become increasingly withdrawn and unable to enjoy their childhood.

Over the Wall Camp provides residential activity camps for these children, their siblings, and families. The programmes empower children and families to explore new possibilities to do different things, be brave, have fun with other kids, and rediscover the fun and magic of childhood.

For children and families who cannot attend a residential camp there are also online programmes called ‘Camp in the Cloud’.

All programmes are FREE-OF-CHARGE to families and achieve many transformational and academically proven outcomes. However, the charity’s greatest testimony comes from the parents and carers of campers, who say they are simply astonished and overjoyed at the difference made to their children.

As well as charitable credentials, Over The Wall can offer amazing volunteering and engagement opportunities, as well as local carbon offsetting possibilities, for companies looking to develop or enhance their ESG policies.