A fun, adventurous, relieving weekend for the whole family
Going through a stem cell transplant is tough for everyone involved. You might feel overwhelmed and like the illness is a part of your identity. For your child, a 'normal' life with friends, fun, and freedom can seem unreachable. And sometimes, you all just need a break.
Family Camp, a partnership between Over The Wall Camp and Anthony Nolan, is here to do just that. You and your family can enjoy a two-night residential stay full of activities, fun, and making new friends with those who just get it.
The best part? It's all for free! And you’ll have the peace of mind that you’ll be joined by medical and nursing volunteers who are there to support you and your family, if needed. You won't have to worry about a thing.
It was amazing and so wonderful to all do something together. We really let go and had a fantastic time. It felt great to be a child again – and I don’t just mean for Louisa – I mean for all of us.
Karine, mum of Louisa. You can read her blog on the difference Family Camp made.
When and where is the next Family Camp?
Friday 25 September to Sunday 27 September 2026
The Settlement, Ockbrook, Derby, DE72 3RJ
Who can go?
Families who have a child aged 0–17 who has had a stem cell transplant, bone marrow transplant or CAR T -cell therapy may be eligible for a place at the Family Camp. All family members, including siblings, can take part in the activities! One child in the household must be aged 8–17 – see FAQs for more details.
Please note, a medical criteria must be met before an applicant can participate. All applications will be reviewed by the nursing team at Over The Wall Camp. Please follow the link below and speak to Over The Wall Camp for more information.
Anthony Nolan accepts no responsibility for determining whether a participant is medically fit enough to attend the camp, nor does Anthony Nolan accept any responsibility for the appropriateness of the activities during the camp.
Will camp be safe?
Over The Wall Camp has years of experience in providing camps for children with health challenges. Every effort is made within camp to uphold the highest infection control, food, safety and safeguarding standards. Please see the Over The Wall website for more details.
The confidence boost after camp was massive. He came away thinking, ‘I can do this, I’m not the little slow one anymore, I’m the same as everybody else.
Helen, mum of Drew. You can read her blog on how Family Camp went above and beyond her expectations.
How do I apply?
You can now apply for Family Camp 2026 below via the Over The Wall Camp website.
The application process is undertaken entirely by Over The Wall Camp and all offers depend upon campers meeting the inclusion criteria as assessed and determined by Over The Wall.
About Over The Wall Camp
Over The Wall Camp is a UK-based children’s charity that creates empowering residential experiences for children with serious health challenges – and their families. These camps are joyful, transformative spaces where children can be brave and have fun with others. Through laughter, adventure, and connection, Over The Wall Camp helps empower families to explore new possibilities and rediscover the mischief and magic of childhood - and best of all, it’s completely free!
FAQs
What does the weekend look like?
From creative crafts to exciting outdoor challenges, each experience is designed to be fun, inclusive, and promote confidence-building. By the end of the weekend, your child should feel more independent, and you’ll have had a chance to connect with others who understand.
How many places are there per family?
We can welcome a total of 50 people – up to two adults, along with any number of children or young people living in the immediate household.
What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in comfortable, shared buildings designed with families in mind. Each family will have their own en-suite bedroom space with bedding provided.
Why does one child need to be over 8 years old?
Children aged 8 and over are most likely to benefit from the activities and develop key psychosocial skills - like confidence, independence, and connection with others. However, we wouldn’t want families with younger children to miss out, so there will be plenty of appropriate activities for everyone to enjoy.
My child is still having treatment, can we go?
Yes, as long as they’re well enough. You’ll need to meet certain medical criteria, which you can read about on Over The Wall Camp’s website – and if you’re unsure, their team is always happy to talk it through.
What support do we get?
The Anthony Nolan and Over The Wall Camp teams are always on hand to help and keep everything running smoothly. There will also be trained volunteers to guide you through the weekend, and on-site medical professionals should you need them.
What costs are covered?
All costs are covered, including food, accommodation and activities. Travel to and from the camp will be reimbursed separately by Anthony Nolan.
How does the application process work?
Family Camp is run by Over The Wall Camp and supported and part-funded by Anthony Nolan. The application process is undertaken entirely by Over The Wall Camp and all offers depend upon campers meeting their inclusion criteria.
Please note that as outlined above Anthony Nolan accepts no responsibility for determining whether a participant is medically fit enough to attend the camp, nor does Anthony Nolan accept any responsibility for the appropriateness of the activities during the camp.