Young people from across the region came together this summer for the St John Ambulance North West Youth Camp, held at Linnet Clough Scout Camp, Mellor, from 1 to 8 August 2026.
The residential camp provided 68 Cadets and 9 Badgers, aged 5 to 17, with opportunities to participate in a varied programme of outdoor activities, team challenges and campcraft, while also experiencing traditional camp life.Β
Maria Marsden, Community of Practice Officer for Youth Leadership, said:
Camp is about so much more than tents and activities. It is about creating a place where young people feel they belong, where they can challenge themselves, discover what they are capable of and develop the confidence to become our leaders of the future.Β
βWhat made this week so special was seeing our Cadets and Badgers supporting one another, overcoming challenges and growing throughout the week. Alongside them was an extraordinary team of volunteers and young leaders who gave their time, skills and energy to make it possible.
A key feature of the camp was the involvement of young leaders and Cadet Team Leaders, who took on genuine leadership responsibilities throughout the week, working alongside adult volunteers to support younger participants and help deliver activities.Β
The camp at Linnet Clough Scout Camp in Mellor was made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers covering youth leadership, safeguarding, welfare, first aid, logistics, catering, transport and other essential support functions.Β
Commenting on the immense contribution made by adult volunteers, Maria said:
From safeguarding and welfare to activities, catering, logistics, tent repairs and even the less glamorous jobs, every contribution mattered. It was the HEART values of St John Ambulance in action, and the memories, friendships and confidence our young people have taken home are the greatest measure of its success.
As well as learning new skills, participants were encouraged to develop confidence, independence and leadership qualities while working together and supporting one another throughout the week. The camp reflected the St John Ambulance HEART values of Humanity, Excellence, Accountability, Responsiveness and Teamwork, with volunteers and young people contributing to the success of the event.Β
In a final reflection on the week, Maria said:
The phrase that perhaps sums it up best is: βThe world youβre going to make.β These young people are part of the future of St John and our communities, and giving them opportunities like this is an investment in that future.
If you've been inspired our young people want to find out how you can get involved, please visit our website at https://www.sja.org.uk/get-involved/young-people/.
