Camp Simcha beats a positive retreat to give parents respite

Families with seriously ill children joined Camp Simcha in Daventry, Northamptonshire, for a long weekend away from the day-to-day stresses.

Nearly 200 family members from London and Manchester enjoyed activities ranging from go-karting and laser tag to hairdressing and crafts, as well as relaxation time and pampering activities.

Participants included Esther Fletcher of Edgware, whose seven-year-old daughter Elisheva has a rare condition requiring a tracheotomy and ventilator.

“We have been supported by Camp Simcha since Elisheva was six months old and my children literally start looking forward to the next retreat almost as soon as the last one finishes,” she said.