Children’s holiday centre facing rising costs seeks support from donors and fundraisers

A Derbyshire charity has reported it has been hit by soaring energy bills and soaring inflation, resulting in weekly costs rising by £1,000 a week. 

Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre provides five-day retreats for underprivileged youngsters who may not otherwise have the opportunity for a break.

Children are selected for the program through nominations from their schools, with numerous primary schools in Derby and Derbyshire regularly sending students for week-long stays between March and October.

The centre also hosts a special festive week during Christmas.

According to the organisation, its operational expenses have increased compared to just two or three years ago, meaning they are reaching out to donors and fundraisers.

Paul Duffin has served as the finance officer for the holiday centre for the past 43 years and said: “If you wind the clock back 10 or 15 years, we had a long period of very little inflation. Three years ago, we suddenly got inflation back, and our current costs reflect that. We are affected as much as anyone by rising heating bills, rates, food bills and wages.

“This charity is something I believe in. I sometimes get over to Skegness and get to see the children there. Seeing their smiles and feedback is wonderful. We have over the years had some remarkably touching letters, including several from people in their 30s who have reflected on their time there and said what a difference it made to their lives.”

The centre is now due to open the doors of its Skegness centre again later this month.