Go Beyond Countryside Retreat 2024

We’ve been proudly partnering with Go Beyond since 2016, donating 1% of all our profits, and have had the wonderful opportunity to visit their retreats on several occasions across the years. 

In May 2022 the team visited Go Beyond’s Derbyshire retreat and in July 2023, the team visited the coastal Cornwall retreat. In July 2024, it was time to visit Derbyshire again. 

A Day in the Peak District: Our Visit to Go Beyond’s Children’s Centre

Nestled in the rolling green heart of the Peak District, the centre occupies a charming former farm, complete with old buildings and barns that exude character. As we arrived, we learned that the children, who had all travelled to Derby station earlier in the week, were young carers – kids who shoulder the incredible responsibility of caring for a parent or sibling. For them, this break was not simply a holiday; it was a much-needed respite.

A member of staff, Kizzy, led us on a tour of the centre, patiently answering our questions and sharing stories about the incredible work Go Beyond has been doing for over 30 years. The centre is one of two – its sister site is in Cornwall – and together, they aim to help 1,000 children this year alone. It’s heartwarming to know that some of the children who once benefited from the program have returned as adult volunteers, eager to give back to a place that gave them so much.

The centre itself is a haven for the children. We were shown around the barn, which has been thoughtfully divided into different zones: a craft area, a football pitch, two large trampolines, and a games section with table football, Jenga, giant Connect Four, and table tennis. The atmosphere was lively, and it was clear that this was a place where kids could just be kids, away from the pressures of their everyday lives.

We joined the children around the fire pit for a chat. Ranging in age from 10 to 14, they shared their stories with us. Despite the challenges they face at home, there was an unmistakable sense of joy and excitement in the air. It was inspiring to see how resilient and positive they were.

When we arrived, the children were in the middle of an orienteering activity, part of an Olympics-themed week. Throughout their stay, they earn ‘bucks’ which they can spend at a tuck shop on treats and small items. The day’s sunny weather was a bonus, but the centre is prepared for any weather, with a stash of Wellingtons and raincoats ready for rainy days.

Lunch was a lively affair, served at a large communal table. We feasted on delicious fajitas followed by cheesecake, with plenty of chatter filling the room. The children talked animatedly about their cooking adventures at home. One boy proudly showed off the nail varnish he’d bought with his ‘bucks,’ which quickly led to an impromptu nail-painting session. Soon, several of us were sporting blue nails which looked especially fetching on Martyn, Oscar, and Alberto! This was a simple yet powerful moment of togetherness.

The afternoon was just as fun-filled. We played frisbee golf with the children, which culminated in the awarding of ‘Olympic’ medals. Alberto was thrilled to be chosen first for his team, much to his surprise. The joy and laughter were infectious, and it was clear that everyone was having a blast.

As the day wound down, the children excitedly packed for a trip to a water park, stuffing towels and swimwear into their bags. Before they left, we handed out goodie bags filled with sunglasses and beach balls, much to the children’s delight.

Once they had departed, we had a chance to tour the sleeping quarters. The rooms were cosy and well-maintained, with four beds in each and clean, tidy bathrooms. Despite the usual complaints about snoring, the kids found the accommodation comfortable and welcoming.

Our day ended with a bit of a rush—a taxi mix-up had us scrambling, but a kind worker from the centre saved the day, driving us back to Derby station just in time to catch our train. As we settled into our seats, tired but content, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible impact Go Beyond has on these children’s lives. It was a day well spent, and one we won’t soon forget.

Go Beyond currently receives referrals from teachers and social workers for children who are in need of a break (you can also refer a child here). Many children in the UK from difficult and disadvantaged backgrounds could benefit from one of these week-long retreats, so we’re proud to be continuing to work with this fantastic charity for many years to come.

If you would like to make a difference too, please follow this link to donate. You can also become a volunteer to help inspire confidence and self-belief in young people during their memorable retreat.