Our First Family Residential – A Weekend to Remember in Dymchurch

Our First Family Residential – A Weekend to Remember in Dymchurch

We’re delighted to share the highlights from our very first family residential trip to Dymchurch! It was a weekend full of sunshine, connection, and new experiences — for children, parents, and our team alike.

The trip was a wonderful opportunity for families to step away from their routines, make new friends, and appreciate each other in a whole new setting. From building sandcastles on the beach and dipping toes in the sea, to riding the steam train together and making memories that will last a lifetime — there was something for everyone.

We’re so proud of the progress we saw in children and young people over the weekend. Some grew in confidence, some made their first new friends, and many tried something for the first time. Parents also valued the opportunity to connect with each other and appreciate their children’s growing independence in a supported environment.

Some of the lovely messages we received after the trip really sum up its impact:

“Thank you for a lovely weekend and making me and Dylan feel comfortable on the break. It was lovely to get to know a few of the parents too. Dylan did a little bit of mixing but also got to know some more staff. A great thank you to Harry — he was amazing with Dylan! (Dylan would like to know when Harry is working in the summer break, so he could maybe attend if there’s any spaces?)”

“This weekend was amazing for building mine and Dylan’s relationship. We’ve never been away just us two — it made me see how much he’s grown up in many different ways that wouldn’t have happened unless we came away.”

“Thank you to all CASPA staff again! 👍🏻”

“Hi Miranda! Just heading back now. Thank you and all the staff/Shannon who organised and worked this trip. Me and my family have had the best time. Definitely a trip to remember. Bring on next year! 💚❤️”

“Hi Miranda, can you please pass our thanks to the team. We had a lovely weekend and Lukas is already badgering us to book for next year.”

“Miranda, I wanted to say thank you for asking me to volunteer this trip and a huge thank you for making me feel so included and happy. I had the best time getting to know all the siblings and parents — I couldn’t have asked for a better residential with all you guys trusting me with it all. Thank you 🙏”

“Thank you so much for organizing such a wonderful trip and for all the support 💚”

“Thank you everyone for a lovely weekend.”

We’re already looking forward to making more memories together on future residentials and possibly securing funding for next year. Thank you to all the families, children, team members, and supporters who made this weekend so special.