A cherished Salford institution is calling on local companies to step forward and help secure its future.
The Salford Children’s Holiday Camp in Prestatyn, which has been giving generations of young people their first seaside holiday since 1926, is facing a major challenge. One of its dormitory blocks—installed in 1979 as a “temporary” building, has finally reached the end of its life.
Without urgent support, the camp risks losing vital accommodation for hundreds of children. To ensure the next generation of Salford children and families can continue to enjoy time by the sea, the charity is planning to replace the block with modern, family-friendly lodges. The first of these is due to open in 2026, but £100,000 must be raised to make it possible.
A Call to Action for Salford Businesses
The camp is appealing directly to Salford’s business community – contractors, consultants, subcontractors, and companies large and small—to help fund this once-in-a-generation rebuild.
“This is more than bricks and mortar,” said Nick Abbott, Trustee of the Salford Children’s Holiday Camp. “For nearly a century, the camp has given Salford children, families, and young carers a break they might otherwise never experience. We urgently need local companies to rally round and help us transform ‘Salford by the Sea’ for the future.”
Fundraising Highlight: Halloween Ball at The Lowry Hotel
The centrepiece of this year’s fundraising efforts will be a spectacular Halloween Ball on Friday 31st October 2025 at The Lowry Hotel, Salford.
The evening will be compered by Salford’s own Mike Sweeney and feature a very special performance by Peter Hook (Joy Division / New Order), with full supporting entertainment.
- Table sponsorships: £2,000 for a table of 12, including a three-course dinner, wine, and themed Halloween surprises.
- Individual tickets: £175 each.
- Flexible options: Companies can share table sponsorships or purchase multiple tables. Corporate sponsorship packages are also available.
“This is a chance not just to enjoy one of the biggest nights on Salford’s social calendar,” added Nick Abbott, “but to make a lasting difference to thousands of children across Greater Manchester.”
Other Ways to Help
- Auction & raffle prizes: Donate goods or experiences to support the Halloween Ball.
- Partnerships: Designers, suppliers, and contractors are invited to contribute skills or services to the rebuild project.
- Corporate involvement: The camp also welcomes training days, team-building visits, and apprentice programmes at its Prestatyn site.
- Donations: Individuals and organisations can donate directly via JustGiving.
- Donate your time: Consider joining the Charity as a Trustee as we approach our 100 year celebrations.
A Legacy Worth Preserving
The Salford Children’s Holiday Camp narrowly avoided closure in 2014 after a public appeal led by the Manchester Evening News. Thanks to overwhelming community and media support, the camp was saved—and now, over 10 years later, the call is just as urgent.
“We need Salford’s business community to stand with us once again,” Nick Abbott urged. “Together, we can give children the seaside holidays they deserve for the next 100 years.”
