‘Seeing is believing’ - Kids’ Village charity opens site office
Kids’ Village, the West Midlands-based charity, which is building the UK’s first dedicated holiday village for critically ill children and their families, has reached a major milestone with the completion of a site office and viewing facility.
This marks the first tangible development at the 30-acre site in Wychnor, near Lichfield, and will allow supporters and potential funders to experience the vision first-hand.
The project was founded by the Fletcher family, who were inspired by their visit to Give Kids the World Village in Florida over 20 years ago, after their daughter Sam’s childhood battle with cancer.
Determined to create a similar respite experience in the UK, the family founded Kids’ Village and have since secured planning permission for 10 lodges, a central facility called the Hive, a lake, and a play area.
In 2024, Kids’ Village launched a £5 million capital appeal to fund construction, with over £1.6 million pledged to date.
The recently completed pre-phase of development includes a staff office, car park, and dedicated viewing space, and will offer visitors a real experience of the vision for Kids’ Village and its peaceful, countryside location.
Earlier this week, trustees held a meeting on-site for the first time.
Doug Wright, chairman of Kids’ Village, said: "We’re incredibly grateful for the support from individuals, the community and corporate partners who have enabled us to start work at site and complete this first phase of works.
“We do though still have a long way to go to reach our £5 million target and alongside our on-going fundraising, we are looking to a small number of funders who may be able to pledge significant support.
“By inviting individuals to visit the site and see our vision for themselves, we are confident that ‘seeing is believing’—and that this will help unlock the next stage of capital funding.”
Sam Fletcher-Goodwin, co-founder of Kids’ Village, added: “This is a huge milestone for Kids’ Village. Walking our Trustees through the site last night reinforced just how special, calm, and perfect this location is for our vision.
“We are more determined than ever to raise the remaining funds and begin full construction as soon as possible.
“Kids’ Village is about joy, magic, and fresh air - the total opposite of a hospital stay.
“Nothing like this exists in the UK right now, and we urge anyone who can help us make this a reality to get in touch.”
To arrange a site visit or learn more about how you can support the project, please contact info@kidsvillage.org.uk or visit the charity’s website.
