Give Us Time, a small military charity, has had its Biggest Christmas Ever, supporting more than 25 Forces families to have breaks and days out over the festive period. With days out at the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and light shows from Edinburgh to Devon, week-long holidays in Spain, and short breaks across the UK on offer, the team were busier than ever supporting families to book all these special times together.
These wonderful opportunities, which were all donated, really were the star on the Christmas tree for the charity, which also recently marked its best year ever supporting more than 280 families. With the pressures on serving personnel showing no signs of reducing, the charity was thrilled to offer these breaks and give families the chance to be together.
Alex Youngs, Operations Director for the charity, said, “Christmas is such a special time, with families coming together to celebrate and share special moments. However, for forces families, it can be extremely difficult with uncertainty and not being together. These breaks can have a hugely positive effect on families, with time away from the everyday of military life giving the opportunity to make new memories together”.
A representative from Away Resorts, who donated all the UK short breaks, said, “At Away Resorts, we’re honoured to continue our partnership with Give Us Time. Creating cherished memories is at the heart of what we do, and these families — who have given so much — deserve them more than most. It’s truly heartwarming to see them reconnect and enjoy precious moments together at our beautiful locations.”
Two families who went on breaks with Away Resorts shared their stories.
Aimee told us “We felt spoilt from start to finish!
“It takes a while to get back to normal after a deployment, everyone has new routines and ways of doing things, but this break really helped. From the moment we arrived and met the lady in reception (she had lovely sparkly shoes!) we felt in good hands. We both remarked how calm and peaceful the resort was – really relaxing!
“The surprise visit from Father Christmas was a real highlight. My son is 5 and all in for Father Christmas at the moment. He ran as fast as his legs would carry him and couldn’t believe it when Father Christmas gave him a high five!
“Knowing companies like Away Resorts and Give Us Time are working together to support Forces families means the world”
Derek said “Being part of the Army brings mixed feelings; you are helping maintain peace and order on the world stage, but it also takes you away from your primary responsibility of being a part of a family, having limited time together, and broken connections and communications.
I was extremely grateful and relieved when I heard I had been offered this break, because it was going to help my wife and I reconnect with each other and help us cope with our situation
It was my wife’s first snow experience, so we waited all night to see it finally touch down. It was a special moment for us! My wife and I are very grateful for this experience.”
Give Us Time relies solely on donated holiday accommodation and days out – if you have a property you can offer, even for a short break, to help a Forces family, please get in touch.
