Away From It All: 60 years of changing lives, one break at a time

Launched in 1965, the Away From It All (AFIA) holiday scheme has been at the heart of Mothers’ Union’s outreach in Britain and Ireland for 60 years. What started as a simple, compassionate idea has grown into one of the most enduring and impactful projects in our movement’s history.

For six decades, AFIA has responded to families facing financial hardship, trauma, illness, domestic abuse, and overwhelming stress. Tens of thousands of families have been supported, with Mothers’ Union groups involved in fundraising, planning and delivering the holidays.

Here are just a few heartwarming stories from across our regions this summer alone.

In Glasgow and Galway, 10 mums and 15 children were gifted a holiday at the Field Study Centre on Isla of Cumbrae in July, made possible by our dedicated MU members and volunteers.

The three days away provided great company and lots of laughs, with new friendships formed and memories created. One mum shared “thank you very much from all my heart. You are angels! Also, thanks to God that I'm 100% human! Just wanted to share the impact a couple of days can have.”

These powerful words a reminder of the impact that even a short break can have on families navigating difficult seasons.

In the Diocese of Bristol, MU members took 136 adults and 128 children on an unforgettable day out to Weston-Super-Mare. With four coaches full of excited families, the trip was all about fun, friendship, and making cherished memories. From paddling in the sea to enjoying ice cream in the sun, the day offered families a rare chance to relax and reconnect.

In Leicester, 10 families were able to enjoy a much-needed holiday at Haven Mablethorpe. The trip gave parents and children time to unwind, recharge, and create precious memories away from the pressures of daily life. For many of the families attending, it was their first real break in years, providing a time of healing, laughter and restoration. A wonderful way to start the summer holidays.

And it's not just days out and holidays that AFIA can provide. In North Devon, the scheme provided funding for a Christian summer camp for children and young people. 

None of this would be achievable without the generosity, prayers and tireless work of Mothers’ Union members and supporters. The AFIA scheme is a testament to what we can do when we come together to uplift families in need. The dedication over 60 years has made joy possible for generations of families.

In today’s world, the need for AFIA is still as urgent as ever, with families caught in the pressures of rising living costs, domestic instability, caring responsibilities and isolation and poverty. A break away from it all isn’t a luxury; for some people, it’s a lifeline. In a time when rest is often inaccessible to people in vulnerable situations, AFIA reminds people that they are seen, valued and loved.

You too can be a part of this life-changing work through donating, volunteering or raising awareness. Together we can continue to take families Away From It All, supporting them to find rest, joy and the hope that they deserve.