Summer outings to the seaside

Our first seaside outing of the summer took us to Bournemouth in July. Once the families arrived, they were able to make the most of their time by the coast. One parent told us their family managed to tick off everything on their seaside wish list: a swim in the sea, fish and chips, and a stop at the arcade.
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Swap to Hayling Island for second trip
The day before the second Bournemouth trip, Horseman Coaches got in touch to warn us about wildfires in the New Forest, associated road closures and the impact this would have on travel times. They suggested Hayling Island as a suitable alternative in the same general direction, but without the disrupted routes. The switch proved to be a good one.

Interest from our partner agencies was especially strong for the trip. After our new partner, RCLC, asked whether more families could be included, we agreed to expand the offer. We booked two 56‑seat coaches, which meant we could extend places to additional partners as well. In the end, an impressive 102 seats were taken.

Once we arrived, everyone set off to enjoy the day. The weather was glorious — sunny, cooler than Reading, and with a refreshing sea breeze. After a few hours by the water, families boarded the coaches for the journey home.

Volunteers enjoying the day with the families.

​Across both seaside outings, Reading Family Aid supported families from seven organisations working with disadvantaged communities. For some, it was their first ever visit to the beach. The feedback afterwards made clear just how valuable a shared day out can be.

“Joining the Hayling Island trip was one of the happiest experiences I have had since coming to the UK. As someone who arrived alone and often felt isolated, the trip gave me the opportunity to get out, meet new people and feel part of a community.”
​Feedback shared through Reading Refugee Support Group

“Spending time outdoors, meeting new people and enjoying a day away from everyday worries helped me feel happier, more relaxed and connected to others. It gave me a sense of freedom and hope.
Feedback shared through Reading Refugee Support Group​

​Thank you to everyone who helped
We are grateful to Horseman Coaches and their drivers for getting everyone from A to B safely and comfortably, including their practical support when the destination changed. Thank you also to Emmer Green Kindergarten for supplying car seats and booster seats for both seaside outings, to the partner organisations that supported participating families and to our volunteers.