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20th Anniversary of popular Rotary KidsOut Day

Thousands of children with special needs enjoyed a memorable day out on Wednesday 10th June when they took part in the annual Rotary KidsOut Day,  the largest day out for disadvantaged children and young people in the UK.

More than 28,000 children and their carers were taken on trips to the seaside, zoos, safari parks, museums, theme parks, and farms across the UK, organised by members of hundreds of Rotary clubs from Great Britain and Ireland.

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Rotary KidsOut, more than 100 venues were visited in advance with more than 1,700 volunteers, supported by local authorities, police and fire services, working to ensure the day was as safe as it was special for children and their carers.

Ian Thomson, President of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, said: “Days out give children the opportunity to experience and discover new things and the effects of something as simple as having fun can last forever. All our Rotary volunteers love taking part in the KidsOut Day because it is a day filled with laughter and you can tell by the smiles what a difference it is making to these children.”

“Many children are fortunate enough to be able to take trips to the beach and parks for granted but for some, these are days they may never get to experience. Organising a day out is often a major challenge for parents and carers who look after disabled children and those with profound learning difficulties. The Rotary KidsOut Day makes these special moments possible.”

“Rotary believes strongly in the importance of promoting fun and happiness for disadvantaged children and young people irrespective of background or circumstance.”

The Rotary KidsOut Day is organised annually by Rotary International in Great Britain and more than 350,000 children have benefited from a fun-packed day out since it began.

Here are some quotes from participants …

"KidsOut days give our children the opportunity to experience and discover. They talk about their special day for months afterwards."
Special Needs Teacher

“The KidsOut Day is a real treat. A day of laughter that brings cherished memories.”

Volunteer

“I went to the Seaside. I’d never been before. I didn’t know which was the deep end.”

Liam, aged 8.

“When you see the smile on the faces of the children, you realise that one day out makes a huge difference – for life.”

 Headmaster, Special Needs School

“The benefits of something as simple as a fun day out last forever.”
Social Worker