Northamptonshire charity offers free seaside breaks for cancer and neonatal families as 2026 availability runs low
A Northamptonshire charity is encouraging families affected by cancer and neonatal care to get in touch soon, as remaining availability for its free respite caravan breaks in 2026 is becoming increasingly limited.
Ailsa's Aim, which supports cancer patients and families with babies in neonatal care across Northamptonshire and the wider UK, offers free and heavily subsidised stays in its accessible caravan at Manor Park Holiday Park in Hunstanton, Norfolk.
The charity launched the project to give families facing some of life's toughest challenges the opportunity to step away from hospital appointments, treatment schedules and everyday pressures, allowing them to spend valuable time together creating positive memories.
The accessible eight-berth caravan is situated at Manor Park Holiday Park and includes entertainment passes, family facilities and accessibility features to ensure as many beneficiaries as possible can enjoy a comfortable break.
Since opening bookings earlier this year, demand has been overwhelming, with families from across Northamptonshire and beyond applying for stays.
Sara Whatley, CEO and Co-Founder of Ailsa's Aim, said: "When you are going through cancer treatment, or your baby is in neonatal care, life can become incredibly stressful. Hospital appointments, uncertainty and financial pressures can quickly take over. We wanted to create something that gives families the opportunity to take a breath, recharge and simply enjoy being together."
"Many people don't realise how difficult it can be financially and emotionally to take a holiday when you're affected by cancer or neonatal care. We are proud to be able to remove some of those barriers and offer something positive during a very challenging time."
Dr Niven Whatley, Co-Founder and Chair of Trustees at Ailsa's Aim, added: "As someone currently undergoing cancer treatment myself, I know first-hand how quickly life can become consumed by appointments, treatment plans, test results and simply trying to get through the next day. Cancer doesn't just affect your health; it impacts your family life, your finances, your confidence and often your ability to make memories with the people you love."
"When you're sitting in chemotherapy or radiotherapy appointments, life can feel very small. Having something positive on the horizon can make a huge difference. That's why this caravan means so much to us. It isn't really about a holiday; it's about hope."
"The caravan gives families affected by cancer and neonatal care the chance to step away from hospital wards and treatment schedules for a few days and simply be together. Whether it's a walk along the beach, children laughing and playing, or a family meal without the constant worry of what comes next, those moments are incredibly valuable."
"We know how much those moments matter because we're living that reality ourselves. If we can give a family the opportunity to relax, reconnect and create memories that aren't centred around illness, then every pound raised, every donation made and every hour volunteered has been worth it."
The caravan project has only been possible thanks to the generosity of supporters, fundraisers, volunteers and local businesses who continue to back the charity's work.
Ailsa's Aim currently supports more than 17,000 families each year through free cancer and neonatal care packs, RADAR keys, wellbeing programmes, mobility equipment and respite opportunities.
The caravan is professionally cleaned and maintained between stays by Bee Clean Services Hunstanton, ensuring every family arrives to a clean, safe and welcoming environment.
With only a limited number of dates remaining for 2026, the charity is encouraging eligible families to make enquiries as soon as possible.
Families affected by cancer, or those with babies who have required neonatal care, can contact the charity directly to discuss eligibility and available dates.
The charity is also inviting local people to help gift a holiday to a family in need.
Every £50 helps provide a welcome hamper, every £100 helps cover a family's refundable deposit, and every donation helps keep this life-changing service available free of charge to families who need it most.
To enquire about a stay:
📧 [email protected]
Follow Ailsa's Aim on Facebook for beneficiary stories, caravan updates, available dates and ways to support families across Northamptonshire and beyond.
Every follow, share and donation helps the charity reach more families when they need support most.