This summer, our supported living houses came together for something very special, our very first group holiday to Center Parcs! For five days, our young adults and staff headed to Center Parcs for a fun-filled adventure packed with activities, laughter, and new experiences.

From the moment they arrived, everyone was buzzing with excitement. The group shared cabins, which made it feel like one big holiday home. Mealtimes together and evenings spent relaxing or playing games really brought a sense of community and friendship.

The group took part in a wide range of activities, bowling, karaoke, pottery painting, crazy golf and so much more. They even took part in a Disney quiz night.

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But the highlight for almost everyone was our day trip to Longleat Safari Park. From the cheeky monkeys that jumped on the car and stole the show, to the boat trip that gave them the chance to see sea lions being fed.

In Their Own Words

“I enjoyed swimming with friends, being a merman like Ariel. Independence on holiday, being with my friends. I liked the zoo boat, seals they were cute. Disney next holiday please Courtney!” - OH, Young adults

Why A Holiday Like This Isn’t Just a Break

For many young adults with learning disabilities and autism, taking a holiday, especially away from home for several nights, can feel out of reach. There are a lot of barriers: finding accommodation that meets accessibility or sensory needs, organising the right support, managing finances, dealing with unfamiliar places and routines, transport challenges... the list goes on.

Because of these things, many don’t ever get the chance to enjoy what others might take for granted, especially not with a group of friends. But at halow, we prode ourselves on giving our young adults the ability to thrive in ways they might otherwise miss out on.

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“All the supported living houses went on their first group holiday to Center Parcs for 5 days. Each one of the adults enjoyed it, they all took part and expressed their enjoyment to me. On the last night Oh did a speech thanking me for arranging and they all cheered. I plan to hopefully do another holiday next year” - Courtney, House Manager

The holiday was such a success that plans are already in the works for next year!

For our young adults, this was more than just a holiday. It was access in independence, shared joy amongst friends and an opportunity to experince soemthing new.

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