Youth Camp is back in July 2026!
Join our Youth Summer Adventure Camp at Howtown Outward Bound!
When: Monday 27th July to Friday 31 July 2026
Where: Howtown, Lake District, England
Who: Deaf young people in Scotland aged 10-18, and their siblings
Cost: Free
We are excited to offer a 5-day residential outdoor adventure camp designed specifically for deaf young people aged 10–18, including CODA and hearing siblings.
This camp provides an exciting opportunity for young people to build confidence, develop leadership skills, make friends and experience outdoor adventures in a fully accessible environment.
Participants will be supported by BSL interpreters, deaf role models and experienced staff throughout the week.
Our previous camps at Howtown provided a variety of opportunities to help build confidence, teamworking skills and belonging among deaf young people – highlighting the value of accessible outdoor experiences.
“When we were doing the gorge scramble everyone helped each other over obstacles and cheered each other on, in the hard bits no one excluded anyone, which was great. [Sharing experiences] helps you create connections with people who can help you in life and help you working in a team.”
Application Deadline
Thursday 30 April 2026
Spaces are limited, so early applications are encouraged.
Successful applicants will also be required to complete an additional participation form provided by Outward Bound before attending the camp.
Who Can Attend
This camp is open to:
- Deaf young people aged 10–18
- Children of Deaf Adults (CODA)
- Hearing siblings of deaf young people
Activities
The programme has been co-designed with young people and shaped by feedback from previous camps. An additional Leadership Refresher day will be held to finalise the programme of activities.
Activities may include:
- Water-based activities – gorge walking – waterfall climbing
- Jumping into the lake from the edge
- Hiking and outdoor exploration
- Team challenges
- Overnight camping experience
- Leadership opportunities for older participants
These experiences are designed to build confidence, teamwork, independence and communication skills.
What’s Included
Everything is provided so young people can focus on enjoying the experience.
We will provide:
- Transport to and from the camp (Pick up point Edinburgh and Glasgow) – Please confirm which pick up points.
- All meals and snacks
- Outdoor activities and instruction
- BSL interpreters
- Deaf Awareness training for Outward Bound staff
- All equipment including:
– Sleeping bags
– Tents
– Walking boots
– Waterproof jackets
– Outdoor equipment
Equipment Deposit
Participants will need to bring £10 on the first day as a refundable equipment deposit.
This is standard practice at Outward Bound.
The £10 will be returned at the end of the week if all equipment is returned.
Additional Opportunities:
Leadership Refresher Day
Older participants may be invited to attend a Leadership Refresher Day in June (date to be confirmed) to support group activities during the camp and assist with planning.
Youth Club Meet-Up
Before camp, we will run a Youth Club session where participants can meet others and prepare for the adventure. Please see the date on our monthly calendar.
Parent Networking
Parents and carers will have optional networking opportunities before and after the camp to connect with other families (date TBC).
Why This Camp Matters
Many deaf young people experience social isolation and limited access to accessible activities, particularly in mainstream settings.
This camp provides:
- A chance to build friendships with other deaf young people
- Opportunities to develop independence and life skills
- Exposure to deaf role models
- A supportive and inclusive environment
At the same time, the camp provides a valuable short break for parents and carers.
This opportunity is made possible thanks to funding support from:
- Better Break Fund (supporting respite opportunities for families)
- Happy Days Charity (Transport support)
- Blueberry Wellbeing (additional activities for Deaf and CODA)
Please get in touch with our Youth Coordinators if you have any questions or need help with dates.
Email: youthservice@deafaction.org
Register your interest
Please fill in the form below to register your interest in attending the Youth Camp 2026. We will then be in touch with you to let you know if you have secured a place.
Deadline for applications is 30 April.