“Our family’s experience is where the idea of The Sandcastle Trust came from. We hope to help other families like ours who are affected by rare genetic conditions create positive family memories”

Danielle Singleton

“We went to the pier, went to the market and sat on the promenade. It wasn’t crowded on the pier and Christopher loved that, as he could drive his wheelchair easily and feel free. For us, it was a much need break."

Jean, Mum to Christopher

“We had a fantastic holiday in June, it helped us as a family massively. It gave us a chance to slow down and spend quality time together. Looking after a child with a genetic condition is a financial strain too and this year we just wouldn’t have been able to afford a holiday".

Paige, Archie’s Mummy

"Now I can find the hope, see the small milestones and appreciate them and see how fortunate we are. I am so grateful to The Sandcastle Trust for the counselling sessions."

Beth, Mummy to Harry

“Going to Centre Parcs has had a huge impact on Ruairi’s wellbeing. He came back so happy and wanting to tell us all about it. He gets on so well with his carers – they can have a laugh. The break really lifted his mood and had a positive effect on his mental health."

Deirdre, Ruairi's Mum

"One third of Ivan’s life has been spent in pain and distress, with many hospital stays. It is horrible and it is hard to go through, but to see Ivan feeling better and having fun was just brilliant.”

Elissa, Mum to Ivan

"Louie taught me so much during his life and how to truly love and care for someone. I will miss him every day for the rest of my life."

Natalie, Mummy to Louie

“I broke down in tears when I heard we had been granted the holiday. After all the assessment and diagnosis, we had gone through a rollercoaster of emotions, for the Sandcastle Trust to say you can get away, have a break from the hospital appointments and take a step back and just be a family, was such a blessing for us all.”

Becky, Mummy to Elijah

“It was lovely to get away and do something just for us. It is a full-time job and exhausting looking after a child with medically complex needs. In Cornwall we could switch off from the day to day, press pause and allow us to be a normal family. We are so grateful to the Sandcastle Trust.”

Harriette, Mummy to Sam

“It was really easy to apply to the Sandcastle Trust and they were so lovely to deal with. The whole process removed any stress – which is brilliant when you are looking after a profoundly disabled child.”

Ilmarie Braun, Eddie's Mum