Charity’s holiday camp brings a sparkle to summer for youngsters
A Sheffield charity created a sparkling summer for children and young people with autism by hosting its annual inclusive holiday camp.
Sparkle Sheffield’s Learn & Go Wild Summer Camp, held at The Peak Centre, in Edale, gave children and young people with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) the chance to take part in a wide range of inclusive activities, including pizza making, arts and crafts, a bouncy castle, climbing, magic shows, discos and equine therapy.
The parent-led charity supports children and young people up to the age of 25 with ASC, whether or not they have a formal diagnosis.
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Founded by parents of children with ASC, Sparkle Sheffield is run by volunteers and aims to ensure families feel less isolated and have access to support.
Its work includes peer mentoring, advice workshops and sensory-friendly activities such as cinema trips and swimming.
Sparkle Sheffield has received funding from South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF) and was recently presented with the SYCF President’s Award at the Foundation’s 40th anniversary Community Celebration event.
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Founder Liesje Dusauzay invited SYCF staff, trustees, donors and patrons to visit the Summer Camp to see the charity’s work in action and learn more about its impact on local families.
Liesje said: “It was an honour to welcome the SYCF team to see our Summer Camp Programme.
The Foundation has been so supportive of us over the years and it was wonderful to have the opportunity to meet some of the donors, trustees, patrons and staff who make it all happen.
“The Learn & Go Wild Summer Camp provides children and young people with a safe, inclusive and supportive environment during the school holidays. The programme offers valuable opportunities for social interaction, confidence building and enjoyment, with activities tailored to the needs of children with ASC.”
Sparkle Sheffield was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2022, recognising the contribution made by its volunteers to the local community.
Michelle Dickinson, Deputy CEO and Head of Partnerships and Programmes at SYCF, said: “It was wonderful to meet Liesje, the Sparkle Sheffield team and its volunteers and learn more about just one part of the amazing work they do to support children, young people and their families.
“Seeing the children so relaxed and happy at the Summer Camp, enjoying activities and experiencing things they may never have had the opportunity to try before, was incredibly heart-warming.
“Liesje is a real inspiration, using her own experiences of navigating life with children with ASC, she has created a wonderfully supportive community where families can connect.”
South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation provides grants to community and voluntary organisations across South Yorkshire, helping local groups deliver projects that make a difference to people and communities.
Meet Michelle
Michelle leads strategic partnerships to connect giving with community need across the region. Since joining in 2019, she has played a key role in major funding initiatives, including flood appeals and cost-of-living support, helping to raise over £2.5 million for South Yorkshire communities.
Her working days are Monday to Friday.
Michelle Dickinson
Deputy CEO and Head of Partnerships and Programmes
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