FAQs
What are the dates for this years Hill End summer holidays?
Mencap I – Independent Older adults, Cornwall, Saturday 13th August to 3pm Saturday 20th August
Mencap II - Adults; 7pm Friday 15th July to 10am Saturday 23rd July
Mencap III - Young Adults; 7pm Saturday 23rd July to 10am Saturday 30th July
Mencap IV – Elite, 2-1 care; 7pm Saturday 23rd July to 10am Saturday 30th July
Mencap V - Teens; 7pm Saturday 30th August to 8.30am Saturday 6th August
How do I apply to be a volunteer?
Please fill in an application form (PDF link) and return the form to the Volunteer Co-ordinator oxmencap@gmail.com Please note volunteer places fill fast, if the week is full you may be asked if you would be happy to volunteer on another week.
Which week should I choose?
Each week of Hill End has its own character.
Mencap I is in Cornwall & is for more independent holidayers.
Mencap II - Older adults is pretty chilled-out. Many of the campers have been coming to adults week for years and are happy to show their volunteers how things work. This week is all about having a fun and interesting holiday.
Mencap III - Young adults is for slightly younger people - 18-25 yrs and is very much the same as above, but you'll need a bit more energy!
Mencap IV - Elite is for campers who require 2 to 1 care. By offering this level of care it means we offer a holiday to more demanding campers but volunteers are not overwhelmed by their requirements. It is a smaller week and close teamwork in smaller groups is the key to what makes this week work.
Mencap V - Teens ....... well the energy levels get higher! It is for people with lots of energy and a great sense of fun. The young people (12-16 yrs) may be hard work but are also very rewarding. If you like madcap games and wild adventures, this is the week for you.
Every week is about the campers becoming more independent. They appreciate hanging out with friends their own age, going on trips, playing sports, having a go at new activities and ........ getting ready for that all-important disco.
What is expected of a volunteer?
Each volunteer will be paired with a camper for the week. Some campers just want a great companion for the week; others need a bit more support. Volunteers will be accompanying the campers on the activities and will be helping your camper with meals, bedtimes and personal care if needed.
The holidays do require a lot of energy, patience and hard work, but they are also immensely rewarding. Mencap holidays provide fun, friendship and new experiences for campers and volunteers alike.
What type of activities take place on the weeks?
Activities vary from outings to the Zoo, theme parks, bowling, and the cinema to swimming, singing round the camp fire and arts and crafts.
Do I need any previous experience or training?
No previous experience is necessary just an open mind, plenty of energy and a can do attitude. You will given a full briefing by the leaders before the campers arrive and support will be given throughout the week. Each evening there is a volunteer meeting which gives you an idea of what the following day will bring and allows for any adjustments and updates that need to be shared with everyone and ongoing training.
Where do the holidays take place?
One of the holidays takes place in Wales, but all the remaining holidays take place at Hill End Residential Field Study Centre, Eynsham Road, Farmoor, Oxford, OX2 9NJ
How do I get to Hill End?
By Minibus: There will be a minibus picking up people from Oxford Train Station at 7pm on each arrival day.
By Car: From the A34 get onto the A420 towards Swindon and west. As soon as you’re on the A420, get off it onto the B4044. Hill End Field Study Centre is on this road between Botley and Farmoor on the right hand side.
By Bus: Take the S1 Stagecoach bus going to Eynsham/Witney. They depart from Gloucester Green bus station and pick up from opposite the Oxford railway complex. They run every 15 - 20 minutes and ask them to put you off at Hill End just before Farmoor!
When is the Orientation day for volunteers?
The Orientation is on Sunday 13th June at Hill End. We recommend if you are a new volunteer that you try and make this day - and we love to see old volunteers as well! It gives you an opportunity to find out what camp will be like and meet the leaders and other volunteers. We also invite some of the campers along so that you can meet them as well. We do a pick up from central Oxford around 11.30am if you need transport out to camp, please contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator, on oxmencap@gmail.com and wait for us on the main steps outside Oxford Train Station. Look for a minibus or cars with Mencap posters in the front window.
How old do you have to be to volunteer?
Most people who volunteer are between the ages of 17-30. We ask that volunteers are 17 years or above, as you will be volunteering for long hours and you will be responsible for supporting and caring for others.
Do I need to be CRB checked again if I already have one?
All volunteers are required to have a valid CRB form from Oxford Mencap in order to participate in the holidays. The CRB will last 3 years.
How will I know if I have been accepted as a volunteer for one of the holidays?
You will receive confirmation from the Volunteer Co-ordinator, that she has received your form and you have been accepted on the holiday you requested. Please note volunteer places fill fast; if the week is full you may be asked if you would be happy to volunteer on another week.
What do I need to bring?
A sense of humour and energy
Other necessities include:-
- sleeping bag/duvet, pillow case and sheet.
- torch (optional but useful). Don’t forget spare batteries
- swimming costume, sun cream, raincoat.
- small rucksack for day trips
- enough clothes for the week - there are no washing facilities unless you are staying 2 weeks
- iPod/CDs &/or any musical instruments
- a camera, water bottle
- trainers/good shoes
Will it cost me anything to volunteer?
Once on camp you should not need any money unless you decide to buy extra drinks/chocolate for yourself. All other costs will be covered and you will be well fed. Volunteers do not receive any expenses and have to get themselves to camp. All the money we raise goes on the holidays for the campers.
Does the volunteering qualify as part of my Duke of Edinburgh Award?
The holidays do qualify as part of the Duke of Edinburgh residential project. Please let the leader know on your arrival so they are aware they need to sign your form off at the end of the week.
Who can I contact if I have any further questions about volunteering?
Please contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator, if you have any further questions.
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