FAQ
What is YouthFest?
YouthFest is a weekend camping event where young people can come together for fun, adventure, and exploring faith. The weekend is packed with exciting activities, worship, teaching, and time to build friendships.
Who runs YouthFest?
YouthFest is organized by a team from, St James by the Park, Highfield Church, New Community Church and Ascension Church in Southampton. The event is led by experienced youth leaders and volunteers.
Is YouthFest insured?
Yes, Youthfest is an approved activity by the standing committee of Highfield Church Southampton and Eployee and volunteer insurance to the value of £10,000,000 and public liability insurance to the value of £10,000,000.
Where is YouthFest held?
YouthFest takes place at a Christian camp site within an hours drive of Southampton. It offers a secure site with both camping and cabin accommodation. The exact address and arrival details will be provided closer to the date.
Will my child be in a tent or a cabin?
Accommodation is split between tents and cabins; however, we cannot guarantee that your young person will be placed in a cabin. We do our best to allocate accommodation fairly but start by allocating it to our youngest campers.
Are boys and girls accommodated separately?
Yes, accommodation is separated by gender, and leaders are assigned accordingly to ensure appropriate supervision.
What are the toilet and shower facilities like?
The site has clean and well-maintained toilet and shower facilities available for all young people, and offers separate toilet and showers for team.
Are meals provided?
Yes! All meals and snacks are included in the booking fee. We ensure that food is prepared following strict hygiene and safety guidelines.
Can dietary requirements be catered for?
Yes, we can accommodate most dietary needs. Please indicate any allergies or dietary restrictions on the booking form so we can plan accordingly and update us with any changes as soon as possible.
Do young people need to bring spending money?
Everything needed for the weekend is provided, but there may be a small tuck shop where snacks can be purchased. Due to signal we will only be able to accept cash and recommend no more than £10.
Are all leaders DBS checked?
Yes, all YouthFest leaders and volunteers are safely recruited following the Church of England guidelines, DBS-checked, and trained in safeguarding to ensure the safety and well-being of all young people.
Will there be a first aider on site?
Yes, there will always be a qualified first aider on-site throughout the weekend.
What is the medication policy?
Any medications must be handed in at check-in to the designated first aid team.
Medications must be clearly labelled with the young person’s name and dosage instructions. If you have any concerns please do get in touch a few weeks before the event or speak to the first aid team on arrival.
Young people should not keep medication with them unless agreed upon in advance (e.g., inhalers, EpiPens).
What happens in case of an emergency?
Parents/guardians will be contacted as soon as possible in the event of an emergency. All leaders are trained to handle various situations, and appropriate care will be given.
Can my child bring a phone?
We recommend that young people leave their phones at home to fully engage in the experience. If they do bring a phone, it is their responsibility, and we are not liable for loss or damage.
Is smoking or vaping allowed?
No. Smoking, vaping, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited at YouthFest. Any young person found in possession of these items with be asked to hand them in and will be returned to their parent/guardian upon collection. Their parent/guardian will also be informed at the time as well.
Will photos and videos be taken at YouthFest?
Yes, photos and videos will be taken throughout the event. These may be used for promotional purposes in line with GDPR and consent policies. If you do not wish your child to be included in photos or videos, please do let us know by using the contact us page on here.
What should my child bring?
Here’s a suggested kit list:
✅ Sleeping bag and pillow
✅ Roll mat or airbed (if camping)
✅ Warm clothing for evenings
✅ Waterproof jacket
✅ Towel and toiletries
✅ Torch and spare batteries
✅ Bible and notebook
✅ Refillable water bottle
✅ Small amount of spending money (optional)
What should NOT be brought?
🚫 Expensive electronics
🚫 Large amounts of cash
🚫 Energy drinks
🚫 Knives or any sharp objects
🚫 Matches or lighters
Other Questions
How do I contact my child during the weekend?
In case of an emergency, parents can contact the YouthFest team using the emergency contact number provided before the event. This number will be provided a few weeks before the event.
We know that for some young people, residential trips can be a little daunting. We make sure that all of our team are understanding of this, sometimes when a young person isn’t having as much fun as we hope or have a concern they will contact their parent/guardian. If they do this we would love you to encourage them to come and speak to us to see how we can help. We find most issues/concerns can be sorted quickly.
What happens if my child wants to go home early?
If a young person needs to leave early, parents/guardians will need to arrange transport and notify the team in advance.
What happens if my child misbehaves?
YouthFest has clear behaviour expectations. In our bookings terms and conditions It says
“We reserve the right to send home any young person from the site as a last resort in cases of serious or repeated unacceptable behaviour that compromises the safety, well-being, or enjoyment of them or others. This decision will only be made after all reasonable steps to address the behaviour have been taken, in consultation with parents or guardians. In the event of needing to send home a young person we will contact their parent(s) or guardian(s) who will need to come and collect them from site.
If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us at Bookings@southamptonyouthfest.co.uk
We’re looking forward to an amazing YouthFest! 🎉
