We had 83 campers who camped to build a strong community.

The children played, had a tractor ride, fished for the 1st time, did rock painting, bingo, a quiz, crafts, sports, water fun, cake decorating, dog show, Lego, water bottle designing, bush crafts to name just a few of the fun activities.

The parents were able to spend time with others who really do get it whilst enjoying the freedom and play their children were having.

100% of those that attended the camp and gave feed back said definitely to the question - the aim of Creating Adoption Networks Community Interest Company is to connect adoptive families together in a safe manner and enable everyone to have fun. Did this event achieve this?

“Our children's happiest time of the Camp is the most relaxed we are during the year & feels essential to recharge our batteries: the children really accept each other & form vital friendships; parents can relax knowing their family won’t be judged. Any other summer holiday activity is only booked if it does not clash with  camp.”

“A much needed opportunity for adoptive families to spend time together in a safe and welcoming place where the children can relax and be themselves.”

“This event is wonderful. To see your child feel totally confident around others making friends having fun learning from others sharing with others & most importantly not feeling like an ‘outsider’ or the only person who’s ‘different’ is the best thing for a parent to observe. And as a parent making friendships & connections with like minded parents is wonderful & so important to realise you are not alone in our adoption journeys. We all share support & understand, that in itself is priceless. Thank you so much to Clare & Lydia. We LOVE coming to camp & wouldn’t miss coming for anything !!”

“Thank you so much for an amazing week. Both boys have said they didn't want to come home. It is so fantastic to be part of a community that so values our children, accepting and celebrating who they are and allowing them to be themselves with no judgements. They are making friendships that are so important to them and we have done so as adults too. Thank you everyone for your support and kindness and especially to Clare and Lydia for making it all happen and James for the funding to allow our children to have a week they'll remember forever.”

“The camp brings adoptive families together”

“Our children were not just accepted for who they are but positively welcomed and encouraged. We have have all made friendships that make our lives better.”

“Gracie says she thinks it’s amazing and fun.”

“The camp is brilliant, it bring nearly a hundred adoptive families together for a fantastic weeks camping and activity sessions which helps the kids bond, the parents meet friendly understanding faces new and old and it a great tension releaser for both the kids and parents alike, what a wonderful event organised by a fantastic team of Clare and Lydia x”

“My son was so happy to be at camp this year... He described the week as 'living my dream'”

“We had the most amazing time and we met lovely, kind people. We have hopefully made some forever friends and look forward to being able to help others in the future the way we have been supported by everyone at camp”

“ Its the best week of our holidays ever”

“This week camping with other adoptive families is so precious. A chance for parents to relax - without being on guard of judgement or exclusion by school parents and the general public - and to share info - and have FUN!!”

“Our family thoroughly enjoyed camping with other adoptive families. The camp provides a caring and safe environment for children and adults to relax, chat, make friends, be creative and be free.”

“One size does not fit all with adoption families, and Creating Adoption Networks appreciates this and in a child centred way caters for the varying needs of the families at their camps. We have attended many times and intend to continue for as long as they will have us. Until you have the lived experience it's almost impossible to appreciate how isolating being a home educating single parent to both birth and adoptive children is, but this isolation is something families at camp appreciate and thus community space in invaluable for us.”

“Camping with other adopters helps me be a better, more understanding parent to my daughter. We have had a tough year this year, but I can see other parents going through the same issues as me, and camping together just gives my family time and space to breathe and reconnect.”

“This holiday provides a safe space for our daughter to just be. She can have fun all day in a safe space and parents can chat and share and relax. We love this week”

“The week was as relaxing as it was joyous. It was so safe and inclusive - watching the children and young people connect with others who understand their life stories and backgrounds was lovely and will be so important for their sense of self and self-esteem as they navigate the world and having the opportunity to connect with other parents was similarly priceless. We loved every moment of it.”

“It was an excellent 5 days, brilliantly organised and compassionately executed. We felt very included.”

“A lifeline for adoptive families! An incredible organisation that helps connect families of adoption with each other and to create an environment where the children can thrive together.”

“From the outside looking in, it’s hard to understand. From the inside looking out, it’s hard to explain.” Camp is expertly led by Clare and Lydia. Families whom are rarely welcomed anywhere are received with open arms. To be amongst those who are able to manage how our children present is both a joy and a relief. Big thanks.”

“Henlow camp is the highlight of our year. Our 5 year old daughter loves it. It’s her 3rd time this year and each year she has become more comfortable and confident at camp. It’s so great for her to see and mix with other families just like ours and as a parent knowing other parents who understand us and our situation is invaluable.”

“The kids love the freedom to play and craft in a safe environment with other children who are also adopted.”