Charity forced to cancel 'first of its kind' camp in Northampton for teenagers with serious illnesses

A children's charity has launched an emergency fundraising appeal after it was forced to cancel a summer camp for teenagers that was set to debut in Northampton.

Over The Wall was preparing to launch a brand new experience in Northampton this summer - a camp for teenagers with serious illnesses where they could make friends and build confidence.

But, in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic, Over the Wall has been forced to call it off - and has suffered a major financial blow as a result.

Now, the charity has launched an emergency fundraising drive to make sure it can one day hold more camps for seriously-ill children.

CEO Kevin Mathieson said: “Today, we are launching an appeal for funding, to essentially help ensure the survival of Over The Wall– and would therefore gratefully receive any support the public can offer.

“The coronavirus has had such a severe impact on our fundraising programme, that we have already adopted a range of different measures in an attempt to ensure the survival of Over The Wall.

Whilst we know the coronavirus will one day be beaten, we are unsure of the continuation of our charity. So, if you can, please help us to ensure that Over The Wall survives these difficult times."

The charity is already putting alternative plans in place for the teenagers who were scheduled to attend the Northampton camp in 2020, including a virtual programme that brings challenges, activities and inspirational projects to teen's homes.

The camp was set to debut at Kings Park and would have offered a range of activities for teenagers with serious illnesses to help them build confidence and make friends.

“The coronavirus has had such a severe impact on our fundraising programme, that we have already adopted a range of different measures in an attempt to ensure the survival of Over The Wall."

To make a donation to help Over The Wall in its emergency appeal, visit their website.Over the Wall was founded by Oscar winner and Hollywood star Paul Newman.