What is CAMP?

Cheshire Adventure Motivation Project

Most of us have fears, which can restrict our lives in a number of ways. These fears lead to self-doubt, which tends to limit our ability to achieve our full potential. The main aim of C.A.M.P is to provide an environment in which some of those fears can be faced and possibly overcome. Trained staffs produce a series of adventure activities, which by their very nature, aim to improve the self-confidence of those who take part. The activities will put the participant under pressure to encourage them to find their strengths and face up to the challenge which is C.A.M.P.

The organizing staffs are expert in their fields and are dedicated to working with all participants of C.A.M.P. They aim to provide a period of intensive training, which we know from experience, will benefit those who take part. C.A.M.P is designed to be an experience from beginning to end. Therefore all people attending CAMP are expected to participate fully in every aspect.

Brief history of C.A.M.P

In April 1988 an informal meeting took place between the director of the Cheshire foundation of Ireland and members of the Irish Air Corps. After some discussion, they agreed to explore the ways in which the Air Corps using their skill in outward-bound activities would undertake to provide the residents of the Cheshire Homes with a meaningful challenge.
These residents are all adults, both men and women with physical disabilities. The aim of this co-operation would be to allow those with serious physical disabilities to expand their lifestyle and to promote their welfare and independence. The Air Corps provided instructors in rock climbing, boating, swimming, confidence and survival activities and thus, the Cheshire Adventure Motivation Project, was set up. The first project was a summer C.A.M.P, which was organised in the Army camp located in Lahinch, Co Clare, in September 1987 and was a great success. There has been a C.A.M.P every year since, growing in size and diversity of activities.

The Aims of CAMP

1. To enable persons with physical disabilities to achieve the maximum in they’re personal development by the use of outward-bound activities such as rock climbing, canoeing, group motivation exercises etc,
2. To enable those with physical disabilities to become aware of their potential, either in groups or on a one to one basis.
3. To enable those with physical disabilities to become more independent and to take a more active role in their care and employment.
4. To assist clubs, e.g. Archery clubs, sailing clubs, etc to accept and train those with physical disability. This assistance will be provided by a liaison that will advise, accompany and or provide any specialist equipment necessary.
5. To provide constant training of new leaders to ensure continuity
6. To train those who manage care for or who interact with persons with physical disability to develop their own understanding and awareness of the special needs of such persons.
7. To fundraise, enabling C.A.M.P to meet its activities, requirements, and commitments.
8. To Expand and develop the scope of services provided by C.A.M.P

Activities range from the following….

1. Adventure: Water sports: Canoeing, Sailing, Power boating, Clay pigeon shooting, Quad biking, Mountain craft, Survival courses, Abseiling.
2. Social: Disco, Barbecue’s, Table quiz, Drama shows, Variety nights.
3. Group work:  Adventure Games, Team building, Survival Exercises.