HCPT - The Pilgrimage Trust

Oakfield Park
32 Bilton Road
Rugby
Warwickshire
CV22 7HQ

Tel: 01788 564646
Fax: 01788 564640
Minicom: 01788 564642
Web: www.hcpt.org.uk
Best time to telephone: 9am - 5pm, Monday - Friday.

Each year during Easter Week HCPT takes around 2,000 children with disabilities or social or emotional needs on a pilgrimage holiday to Lourdes. They come from all walks of life and may belong to any religion or indeed none at all. The children, aged 7-18, come from the UK, Ireland, and other countries. The pilgrimage holidays operate as follows:

• The children are organised in family groups, assisted by helpers - at least one per child, dedicated to their care throughout the week. There are also doctors, nurses and chaplains to give specialist support. All volunteer helpers have an enhanced CRB disclosure.
• Over 200 groups from the UK and elsewhere are organised by HCPT. Group leaders are carefully vetted with a proven track record in caring for children with disabilities. The Trust has its own residential centre near Lourdes which has close links to local medical services.
• Children belong to a locally organised group which arranges meetings between helpers, children and parents so that everyone gets to know each other before the pilgrimage.
• Travel is by plane and accommodation is in a number of the best hotels in Lourdes which have experience of accommodating children with disabilities.
• HCPT selects children on the basis of their medical and social needs and raises funds for the sponsorship of all the children. Parents are welcome to make a contribution to the Trust.

For further information on next Easter's pilgrimage or to volunteer as a helper, please contact the above address.