A Full Weekend for CYE

A FULL weekend for CYE

‘Life to the the full’ at CYE was truly FULL of life for us this bank holiday weekend and we want to tell you about three exciting moments that happened here on site.  

The action started on Friday when we welcomed the leader of the Liberal Democrat Party, Sir Ed Davey and 2 West Sussex Liberal Democrat MPs, Alison Bennett and Jess Brown-Fuller - who, in true CYE style, returned after visiting us only a few weeks ago.  The group had agreat time chatting with staff and children and even got stuck in with the adventurous activities on the water.  It was wonderful to be able to share with them the amazing, life-changing work that is happening here every day – where young people are offered opportunities to find respite, challenge, play, growth, support and so much more through caring connection and outdoor adventure.  We were incredibly grateful to have national press on site to witness and broadcast the good news of what’s unfolding in this special corner of Chichester Harbour.  Whilst they were with us, conversation with Sir Ed Davey and his fellow MPs turned to the important issue of water cleanliness in the harbour - an ecological concern that CYE is keen to support with positive steps forward. We want to see children able to safely play in these waters for many more years to come. We welcome any opportunity to share how young lives are being impacted in such wonderful ways, and to share the good news of Jesus, who we serve passionately.

On Saturday, we opened the gates and were delighted to be joinedby SO MANY PEOPLE for our Open Day.  V2Radio were here, broadcasting their weekend radio show from the front fieldright in the middle of the action while guests enjoyed performances from localgroups – Hellcats Cheerleaders, Dance and Beyond, and Rock Choir.  There was face-painting, ice creams, sumo suits, boat trips, tunnelling, assault course action, cake and coffee…and the sun shone as new friendships were formed and old ones were rekindled.  When the rain started, we sheltered under the marquee and on board T.S. Resolute, where the fun continued late into the afternoon.  We received £1,800 in donations during the event, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who supported the day, both financially and in many other ways. We’re looking forward to welcoming back some of those who found us for the first time.  If that’s you, perhaps check out our events calendar and see what you fancy getting involved with.  

After a brief breather on Sunday, the action picked back up again for one of our favourite annual events – PACSO Day!   For a number of years now, local charity PACSO, who support children with additional needs and their families in Chichester, have filled the CYE site with joy on the Early May Bank Holiday Monday.  PACSO families came and played, taking part together in activities on and off the water.  The day was a perfect mix of fun and calm for these guests who often face big challenges when going out together for the day. At CYE, especially when we’re working with the amazing PACSO team, we’re able to offer specialised support where it’s needed.  We pay careful attention to individual differences, adapting activities where necessary, offering clear communication, providing accessible changing facilities and creating a safe space so these wonderful guests can have ‘irresistible experiences’ while they’re here.  

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