Help Us Bring the Joy of Camping to Children & Young People

Who We Are

Whippersnappers CIC are a not for profit community interest company based in South London www.whippersnappers.org

Our motto is "achieving in life" and our aim is to provide a diverse cultural platform from which children and adults of all ages, needs, and backgrounds can express and educate themselves through music, theatre, sports, and the arts.

We believe in creating inclusive experiences that promote well-being, creativity, and community engagement.

What Are We Fundraising For?

We are raising funds to support our Hever summer 2025 pop-up playscheme and campsite, situated in the grounds of Hever Castle in Kent. Our goal is to provide children from low-income families with the opportunity to experience camping and outdoor activities. We are partnering with local adventure playgrounds to offer these children and young people a chance to connect with nature and participate in enriching experiences.

The Hever Story

In summer 2022, due to building works at our usual venue, we had to find an alternative playscheme model. That’s when we discovered a woodland area in the grounds of Hever Castle in Kent. We piloted a two-week pop-up playscheme, creating a festival-like environment with sand and water play, sensory tents, sports activities, bonfires, den-making, and nature arts. The response was incredible, particularly for children with autism, ADHD, and additional needs, who became visibly calmer and more engaged in the open green space.

Building on this success, in 2023, we introduced a family camping offer, allowing families with disabled children to camp overnight, cook together, enjoy evening campfires, and explore Hever Castle the next day. The overwhelming feedback confirmed just how powerful and necessary these outdoor experiences are.

Why We’re Fundraising

For Summer 2025, we want to expand and enhance our Hever site, making it more inclusive and accessible to even more neurodiverse and neurotypical children and young people, especially from low-income families.

We aim to raise £5,000 to:

✅ Cover additional site infrastructure costs (e.g., accessible toilets, shower facilities, camping equipment).

✅ Fund day trips and camping experiences for children and young people from low-income families.

✅ Partner with local adventure playgrounds to bring more children to Hever for a unique camping experience.

How You Can Help

Every donation—big or small—makes a difference!

£10 helps fund essential activity supplies.

£47 supports a young person’s day trip to Hever (includes travel, food, and activities).

£195 covers two days and an overnight stay for a young person (includes travel, food, camping facilities, and activities).

Donate over £50 and receive complimentary tickets for a Family Fun Day at Hever on Thursday, 31st July (for 2 adults and 2 children).

Even if you can't donate, please share this campaign with your friends, family, and social networks!