Young people from a number of Leicestershire Cares projects recently came together for a summer trip to Drayton Manor, enjoying a day packed with fun, friendship and new experiences.
For many of the young people attending, opportunities to visit attractions such as Drayton Manor can be limited by the cost of tickets and travel. By removing these barriers, the trip provided a chance for participants to enjoy a memorable day out, spend time with friends and experience something that may not otherwise have been possible.
While the rollercoasters and attractions were undoubtedly a highlight, the day also provided valuable opportunities for young people to develop their independence and confidence. After arriving at the park, participants spent the day in small groups, making decisions about where they wanted to go, which rides they most wanted to experience and how best to make use of their time.
I had such a good time. It was nice to get out and meet different people.
Young Person, Leicestershire Cares
Like any busy theme park, the day didn't go entirely to plan. A number of rides experienced temporary technical issues, while queue times for some attractions were longer than expected. Rather than letting this spoil the day, young people demonstrated resilience, flexibility and problem-solving skills, adapting their plans, considering alternative options and working together to decide what to do next.
The trip also encouraged communication, compromise and consideration for others. Within their groups, young people discussed priorities, balanced different interests and supported one another to ensure everyone had the opportunity to enjoy the day. Throughout the visit, participants successfully managed agreed meeting points and times, coming together for lunch and returning to the coach at the end of the day, demonstrating increasing independence and responsibility.
One of the most positive aspects of the trip was the opportunity for young people from different projects to meet and build new friendships. Bringing participants together in a shared environment helped create new connections and strengthened the sense of community that runs throughout Leicestershire Cares.
I stepped out of my comfort zone, and it was nice to see the animals.
Young Person, Leicestershire Cares
We would also like to thank Vicky from British Gas for joining us on the trip. Throughout the day, Vicky took the time to get to know the young people, share in their experiences and join them on rides across the park. Opportunities like this are incredibly valuable, helping young people build relationships with positive role models, grow in confidence when meeting new people and see first-hand the support and encouragement that exists within their wider community.
I had an absolutely fantastic time. Spending the day with the young adults was such a privilege, and it was wonderful to see the enjoyment, laughter, and memories being created throughout the day. The care, effort, and commitment that goes into organising experiences like this really shone through, and I feel very grateful to have been a part of it.
Vicky Bethell, British Gas
We would also like to extend a huge thank you to the team at Drayton Manor. Their guest services team were incredibly accommodating in helping us organise and distribute a large lunch order for our group, ensuring everything ran smoothly and allowing young people to make the most of their day.
The trip was a fantastic example of how positive experiences can support personal development while also creating lasting memories. Whether conquering a fear on a rollercoaster, making a new friend, navigating the park independently or simply enjoying a day out with peers, every young person took something different away from the experience.
We look forward to creating many more opportunities for young people to learn, grow and have fun together in the future.