FAQ

The purpose of SSTW Camp 2010 is to provide young people with the opportunity to develop new friendships, skills and their satsang in a relaxed, informal environment. Here are a few questions that the campers may have which may help them decide whether to attend this years camp.

FOR CAMPERS

Do all campers come with a friend?
No, most campers that come to camp for the first time do not come with a friend, but we can definitely say they all leave camp with lots of new ones. Everyone meets their groups upon arrival at the temple, so by the time they arrive to the camp site for the introduction sessions and teambuilding activities, campers would already know each other.

Where will I sleep?
Do not worry you won’t have to sleep in the cold under the open skies. We have an exclusive marquee that has the capacity of holding 200 campers. It is magnificently decorated and equipped with the modern amenities ranging from the lighting, down to heating to keep you warm during the night while you’re asleep.

How do I get in touch with my parents?
Phone calls are only available on an emergency basis, but if you require making a call our volunteers can arrange that for you. Phones are not permitted at camp due the risk of damages that may occur or it getting lost in such an open space. Also camp is our chance to 'unplug' from all those technological attachments and concentrate on the things that matter for those seven days.

What food will I get to eat?
SSTW Camp is well known for the fantastic food prepared by the kitchen team. For the full seven days, a variety of quality vegetarian dishes, three times a day is served, everything is home made and fresh. If you get hungry between meals, the kitchen always puts out a variety of fruits and snacks that you can swing by and grab on your way to an activity.

Will I be sitting down in a lecture?
Camp is usually a mixture of sports, presentations and workshops. Fear not campers, there’s a variety of entertainment on offer throughout camp and the organisers always get people involved…!

I don’t have a pooja what shall I do?
A pooja is available in the library at Shree Swaminarayan Temple Willesden, complete with all the necessities. There are many campers which attend that do not do morning pooja or do not know how to perform pooja. Not to fear. On the first morning of the camp a workshop will be held on how to perform pooja.

What do I need to pack?
This is what is required when packing:

• Sleeping bag (single)
• Pooja (vatki for water, varo, goti (kumkum container), vatki for feeding God, mala, gaumukhi, mirror, shikshapatri,
• murtis, 2 asan (cloths to lay on floor), saal (boys and girls), if you do not have a pooja then please get one from the Temple Library.
• Small bag (e.g. sports bag/small suitcase) no big suitcases
• Small blanket/camping mat - optional (available from Argos) no duvets
• Small cushion, no pillows
• Toiletries (Soap, Shampoo, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Jibri, Towel, Comb, deodorant)
• Underwear: Minimum 7 pairs
• Socks: Minimum 7 pairs
• Loose comfortable clothes (full length bottoms and no sleeveless) 7 pairs
• For older and younger girls, please bring a chundri/saal to cover your head as santos will be present all the time at camp
• Shower slippers & trainers. No shoes, sandals, high heels or platforms
• Pyjamas (Full length)
• Atleast a minimum of 2 Jumpers or Sweaters
• Medications please let us know of any allergies or medications in advance, which you have
• No phones, game boys, Ipods etc
• No valuables of any kind especially gold jewellery
• No Torches
• No electrical appliances (e.g. hair tongs or straighteners)
• Please maximise pocket money to £10

Lost Property
We recommend that all clothing and belongings are clearly labelled with your Child’s name. Lost property will be kept at the temple for 1 week after the camp. If your child does lose belongings then please contact us directly or via email - camp@shreeswaminarayan.org.uk

Who do I speak to if anything should go wrong?
Problems should be expressed to their group leader first for them to try to resolve the issues. If the problem cannot be resolved or you don’t feel comfortable bringing up the issue with your group leader, then the head of camp and volunteers are always happy to help.

FOR PARENTS

How Do We Provide Campers with the Opportunities to Make Friends?
One of the most frequently asked questions from parents of prospective campers is, "Will my child be okay if he/she isn't coming to camp with a friend?" Yes! One important consideration is creating a blend of campers conducive to formulating new friendships. On the bus, campers are introduced to others who are of similar age to other campers. Each camper is allocated a team leader, whereby they personally welcome each camper upon arrival to camp and introduce them to everyone in their group. On arrival to the camp site, campers participate in team building activities which foster cooperation, communication and friendship building amongst their group members.

What time do we meet up at temple?
Please arrive promptly at 9.00am for Registration.

I want to get involved, how can I help?
Every year we have noticed an increase in the number of volunteers that have participated in our camps and an increase in those who are interested in helping. If you would like to contribute in any way contact Shanti Bhudia on 07956 272 989 or Dipika Bhudia 07763 696 798. Inform them on the days and time you are available, so they can inform you with further details. Even if it’s just for one day. Any help, no matter how big or small is highly appreciated.
 
Can parents come to camp on any other day apart from open day?
Yes of course. Feel free to come and see your child when you want but in order to cater for your visit please notify Shanti Bhudia on 07956 272 989 or Dipika Bhudia 07763 696 798 in order to make the adequate arrangements for your visit.

What if there is an emergency?
We have first aid trained volunteers on site to deal with any kind of emergency. If the incident is too serious all volunteers have mobiles on them at all times to call for professional help as well as cars on site.

Where is the camp site?

The camp address is: PHASEL WOOD SCOUT CAMP,
RUCKLERS LANE,
KINGS LANGLEY,
HERTSFORDSHIRE,
WD4 9NA