Free, life-changing holidays for children who need them most

Through our Core Holiday Offer, Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre (DCHC) provides fully funded, four-night seaside holidays for children referred by schools signed up to our Schools Partnership Agreement.

These holidays are designed to give children from disadvantaged backgrounds the chance to enjoy new experiences, build confidence, and make happy memories in a safe, caring environment.

Who Can Be Referred?

Referrals are open to schools participating in the DCHC Schools Partnership. Schools may nominate children (aged from 6 to 11 years old) who meet one or more of the following criteria:

• * Children experiencing financial hardship or living in low-income households
• * Children who are young carers
• * Children experiencing social isolation, bereavement, or emotional difficulties
• * Children with limited access to holiday or leisure opportunities
• * Children who would benefit from a break to boost confidence, social skills, or wellbeing

This opportunity is ideal for children who are unlikely to access a holiday through other means, but who would thrive in a structured, supported setting.

What’s Included in the Holiday?

• 🛏️ Four-night stay (Monday–Friday) at our centre in Skegness
• 🍽️ All meals, snacks, and drinks
• 🧭 Daily activities, games, beach trips and excursions
• 🚌 Return travel from Derby/Derbyshire to Skegness
• 💛 Round-the-clock care from trained staff and volunteers

Children travel in small groups (14 per week) and are supported throughout by experienced DCHC staff and trained volunteers.

How to Make a Referral

Referrals for the 2026 programme will open in January 2026. Schools who have joined our Partnership Agreement will receive a referral pack and guidance on the nomination process. Referrals must include:

• A completed referral form
• Brief background information explaining the child’s circumstances
• Confirmation of parent/carer consent

Places will be offered based on availability.

📧 Need help or want to discuss a potential referral?
Email us at: [email protected]

Let’s work together to give every child the chance to feel joy, belonging, and adventure.