Women’s Community Matters (WCM), Cumbria

WCM is based in Barrow-on-Furness in Cumbria and describes its philosophy as making “a positive difference to the lives of women, girls aged 13 and above and boys aged 13-17 in the Barrow area by creating a resource for women, young people in crisis and those who are vulnerable and at risk. We strive to create an atmosphere of empowerment and self-development, removing obstacles and dealing with issues together”. 

“Thank you for funding the trip this year.
The young people had a brilliant time and this would
not have been possible without your support.”

The Memorial Trust was approached for funding to enable WCM’s annual camping trip to Kepplewray Outdoor Activities Centre in the Lake District National Park to include additional activities.

This was the feedback:   

“In August 2023 we took our young people’s groups to Kepplewray for our annual camping trip. This was the first time some had been camping and in many cases it was their only trip away from home this summer.

Thanks to funding from the Eloise and Katie Memorial Trust, they were able to take part in a number of additional activities including bush craft, archery and paddle boarding. The team at Kepplewray were very kind and friendly. Our groups were encouraged to work as a team to complete tasks and also helped with setting up the camp, cooking and looking after one another.

We arrange the camping trip for a variety of reasons. Firstly, we offer support for young people who have experienced trauma and other hardships and, secondly, it is an opportunity for them to bond in a very different environment while learning new skills and enjoying being outdoors.

We felt the additional activities enhanced their experience and they said how much they enjoyed them and would like to do them again. Their comments included:

“When can we go again?”

“I love camping and it’s been great doing the activities”

“I’ve not been camping before.  If I’d known it was that fun, I’d go all the time”