© 2010 HCPT Group 71. Photographs used with permission. Charity Registration No. 281074 Registered in England as a Company Limited by Guarantee No. 1095198
71
71
The children are assisted by helpers, many of whom are young people. A number of volunteer doctors, nurses and chaplains also travel to give specialist support. Group Leaders are all previous helpers with a strong track record in caring for children with disabilities. All helpers and volunteers are carefully vetted, undergoing an interview and reference process, as well as Criminal Records Bureau checks to ensure that the children receive the highest level of care and attention while away from home.
The Trust also has its own medical centre in Lourdes which has close links with the local medical services in order to provide a comprehensive service in case of need.
The Trust also has its own medical centre in Lourdes which has close links with the local medical services in order to provide a comprehensive service in case of need.
71 is the Brighton and Hove group of HCPT-The Pilgrimage Trust, but the children who come with us to Lourdes are from all over Sussex.
We spend an amazing week every Easter in the special town of Lourdes in France, when the whole of HCPT are there (all 5000 of us) but Group 71 usually has about 22 members.
We spend an amazing week every Easter in the special town of Lourdes in France, when the whole of HCPT are there (all 5000 of us) but Group 71 usually has about 22 members.
Our banner at the
torchlight procession
torchlight procession
HCPT charters planes from various UK airports and has built strong relationships with a number of the best hotels in Lourdes. These are carefully selected and well used to accommodating HCPT Groups.
Cost
HCPT takes children on the basis of their medical or social needs, and raises the funds for the sponsorship of all the children. Parents are welcome to make a contribution to the Trust, if they wish. Leaders and helpers pay their own costs, but a concessionary scheme may be available for those who find it difficult to pay the full amount.
