Interfaith summer camp breaks down barriers
Children of 15 nationalities and a variety of religions attended – and were visited by the Chief Constable of Hertfordshire who brought along patrol cars
A trailblazing interfaith summer camp that brings together children from different faiths to promote social cohesion returned this year after being recognised for its work.
Camp Unity, a five-day camp for primary school pupils, took place for children across the Borehamwood and Elstree area from 15 to 20 August after being recognised with a High Sheriff Award and a Hertsmere Borough Council award.
Children of 15 nationalities and a variety of religions attended – and were visited by the Chief Constable of Hertfordshire who brought along patrol cars in which children could take photos.
Camp Unity co-organiser, Rabbi Jeff Berger of Wembley Sephardi Synagogue, said the event had broken down barriers between children of different backgrounds and led to greater cooperation between faith leaders.
“Beforehand, these children would probably walk past each other on the street, and not have much engagement with each other, because they would be cloistered in their bubbles, so it was about building some social cohesion in our town,” he said.
“It helps them make friends from different backgrounds. It’s made us [faith leaders] aware of where we’re strong and where we’re lacking, and now we’re on really good terms.”
Alongside the police visit, camp-goers were taken to a ‘Splash’ session at the Venue Leisure Centre, to work on an allotment at Stapleton Road, and to the working farm and attractions at Aldenham Country Park.
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