Families supported by Camp Simcha enjoyed days out with the charity this month to Chester Zoo, Magna Science and Adventure Centre and Apple Jacks Adventure Farm.

“For parents who have a child with complex care needs, the Summer holidays can be very pressurised trying to juggling the demands of their child’s condition and medical appointments, with their other children who are off school,” explains Camp Simcha Head of Services Daniel Gillis.

“The aim of our Summer activities is to offer families some precious time together, as well as an opportunity to benefit from being with other parents and children who understand their daily challenges.”

Camp Simcha parent Mel Fernandez, went on the Manchester outings with her husband and three children, Riva, nine, Monty, seven and Otto, 11 months, who has Allagille Syndrome which causes liver disease and affect his heart.

Mel, from Prestwich, Manchester, explains that with so much of their day-to-day life revolving around how Otto is and his daily needs, as well hospital admissions and doctors’ appointments, having some time to focus on the other children during the outings was really special.

“We have loved being able to go out as a family, which between Otto being unwell and financial pressures is not easy to do. Having that concentrated time together has been amazing.

“It was also really good spending time with some of the other Camp Simcha families – as we saw them on each outing and got to know them better which really makes us feel part of the Camp Simcha community.”