St John's Handicapped Children's Trust (SJHCT) is a small charity which runs two annual holidays for children with special needs. The holidays give the children a marvellous adventure. Parents and carers enjoy a well-earned break, often from 24/7 care.

The holidays' helpers provide an experience that will enrich their lives forever. Read more by visiting the links above.

The children are mainly from schools within the Thames Valley area. No child will ever be turned down on grounds of disability, but to achieve the highest level of care, it's sometimes necessary to strike a balance and take some more able children.

Parents, social workers and schools can apply for a child to go on the holidays. The Trust aims to choose children who will reap the most direct benefits from the trip to Staffordshire. Read more.. Also see "How to get involved"

The holidays are based in Alton Castle, a striking building perched on a cliff top in Staffordshire across a valley from Alton Towers theme park. The castle's many facilities, including a climbing wall, painting room and extensive grounds, are used to the full.

The children also enjoy a host of local activities, such as riding, swimming, a cinema trip, and of course, a day at Alton Towers theme park, with wrist bands that allow them and their helpers to skip every queue. Read more..