Behçet’s UK Friends & Family Day 2024
Saturday 22 June 2024
Llandegfedd Lake, Monmouthshire, South Wales
2024 will be our seventh year holding a Behçet’s Friends and Family Day and this year we will be heading to Llandegfedd Lake, near Pontypool, Monmouthshire on Saturday 22 June 2024. The centre is just 20 miles from Cardiff, less than 10 miles from Newport and if you are coming from South West England, Severn bridge crossings are now free in both directions so we hope this location will be suitable for many of our members.
Come along, take part or spectate – the choice is yours – but either way it is a wonderful chance for members of Behçet’s UK to get together for a FREE fun day out with their family and/or friends. It gives children and adults alike the chance to try some fun activities, make new friends and meet other families affected by Behçet’s.
The activities are still to be finalised but we’ll have a great day of water and land activities. We hope to include archery, axe throwing, stand-up paddleboarding and more. No previous experience is necessary as these activities are suitable for all ability levels, including beginners and some are more suited to those with mobility issues.
We’ll have exclusive use of a breakout room above the watersports centre with stunning views across the reservoir and this will be our base for the day where you can head whenever you need to take a break and recharge. We provide lunch and refreshments throughout the day allowing you to just turn up and enjoy yourselves!
Our Frequently Asked Questions section below should hopefully answer any questions you may have but please don’t hesitate to get in touch by email at info@behcetsuk.org or call us on 0345 130 7328 if there is anything else you would like to know.
It’s set to be a fantastic day out and we hope you can join us!
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE BEHÇET’S UK FAMILY DAY?
This will be our seventh year holding a Behçet’s UK Friends and Family Day and it is a chance for members of Behçet’s UK to get together for a FREE fun day out with their family and friends.
It also gives everyone the opportunity to make new friends, meet other families affected by Behçet’s and try some fun activities.
We encourage all ages to come along to join in or just watch (if preferred) – it’s not just for kids! At previous family days’ ages have ranged from 18 months to 70 years!
WHERE IS THE BEHÇET’S UK FRIENDS & FAMILY DAY?
This year our Friends and Family Day will be held at Llandegfedd Lake Activity Centre
Llandegfedd Reservoir, Coed y Paen, Pontypool, Monmouthshire, Wales, NP4 0SY
WHEN IS THE BEHÇET’S UK FRIENDS & FAMILY DAY?
Saturday 22 June 2024, 09:30 – 17:00
WHAT IS THE COST
Our Friends and Family Day is FREE to attend for Behçet’s UK members and their family/friends, however, to secure your place(s) we request a refundable deposit of £10 per adult attending. This will be refunded within 10 days of attending the friends and family day.
I’M NOT A MEMBER OF BEHÇET’S UK CAN I STILL ATTEND?
Unfortunately, our Behçet’s UK Friends and Family Day is for Behcet’s UK members and their family/friends only. Each group/family who attends must have at least one Behcet’s UK member.
Click here to join Behçet’s UK today
HOW AND WHEN CAN I RESERVE A PLACE?
Reservations are open now. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis but we will have a waiting list should places become available.
We will confirm by email, within 5 working days, if we have been able to allocate your requested place(s) – please check your spam/junk folder.
If we can fulfil your booking request your place(s) will be reserved for 14 days to allow you time to pay your refundable deposit. If we don’t receive your deposit within 14 days of sending the payment link your place(s) will be released and reallocated.
If we are unable to initailly fulfil your request we will let you know by email but will keep you on our waiting list and get in touch if places become available.
WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED TO RESERVE MY PLACE?
You can reserve 6 participant places per group, plus additional spectator places and you will need the following information to complete all the registration details for each adult/child attending:
- first and last name
- date of birth (required for the group consent form)
- details of any dietary requirements and allergies (required for catering)
- details of any mobility issues (required for the group consent form and planning)
- details of any medical conditions or health issues (required for the group consent form)
WHEN AND HOW DO I PAY MY REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT?
Once allocated places will be reserved for 14 days to allow you time to pay your refundable deposit of £10 per adult in the group.
We will send you an email confirming your place(s) and a further email from Behçet’s UK (invoicing@messaging.squareup.com) with your deposit invoice and payment link.
If we don’t receive your deposit within 14 days of sending the payment link your place(s) will be released and reallocated.
If you are unable to pay by credit/debit card or need longer than 14 days to pay your refundable deposit, please contact the admin team by phone 0345 130 7328 or email info@behcetsuk.org as soon as possible to ensure your places aren’t cancelled.
WHY ARE YOU CHARGING A REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT FOR A FREE EVENT?
As this event is free for Behçet’s UK members and their families/friends with limited places available we request a refundable deposit to encourage groups who reserve places to attend and discourage no-shows.
Discouraging no-shows ensures the groups who do attend have a more enjoyable day, reduces the number of disappointed members who can’t attend due to unused places and means that we don’t waste valuable Behçet’s UK funds which could be put to better use.
We appreciate that due to the nature of Behçet’s some cancellations are unavoidable. We will refund your deposit in full if you cancel your booking by 22 May 2024, after this date, please contact us as we will do our utmost to fill any places so we can return your deposit.
ALL THE PLACES ARE BOOKED, DO YOU HAVE A WAITING LIST?
Yes, once all the places have been allocated please complete the request form and we will add you to our waiting list and we will be in touch if/when any places become available.
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?
In the event that you are unable to attend and you need to cancel your place(s) we request that you contact us by email at info@behcetsuk.org or call us on 0345 130 7328 as soon as possible so we can try to fill your place(s).
If you cancel on or before 22 May 2024 we will refund your deposit in full. If you cancel after 22 May 2024 we will refund your deposit if we successfully fill your place(s). Rest assured we will do our utmost to help fill any places so we can return your deposit.
We will aim to refund your deposit within 10 working days.
WHAT IS THE PLAN FOR THE DAY?
We have exclusive use of the breakout room above the watersports centre which will be our base for the day. This is where we will have our breaks and lunch.
| 09:30 – 10:30 | Arrival and meet for refreshments |
| 10:30 – 12:00 | Activity 1 |
| 12:00 – 13:15 | Break including buffet lunch |
| 13:15 – 14:45 | Activity 2 |
| 14:45 – 15:15 | Break and refreshments |
| 15:15 – 16:45 | Activity 3 |
| 16:45 – 17:00 | Goodbyes |
WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL THERE BE?
Activities are still to be finalised with the centre but there will be a choice of watersports and land-based activities which may include sailing, stand up paddleboarding, katakanu’ing, laserclay shooting, axe throwing, archery and orienteering. See WHAT DO THESE ACTIVITIES INVOLVE? for more information.
Activities are suitable for children and adults and no previous experience is necessary. Sessions are run by fully qualified and experienced instructors and the centre provides safety equipment and wetsuits.
The Activity Centre reserves the right to cancel, alter or delay any activity where forced to do so by circumstances out of their control, such as illness, weather, or any situation that they believe would put participants or employees in danger.
IS THERE A MINIMUM AGE FOR TAKING PART?
More information will be provided once the activities have been finalised but as a guide
- Watersports are suitable for children aged 5+ however children aged 5-7 must be in/on the same vessel as their supervising parent or guardian. Children aged 8+ can take part in/on their own vessel.
- Archery is suitable for children aged 6+
- Laserclay is suitable for children aged 8+ due to the weight of the guns
- Axe throwing is suitable for children aged 10+
- Orienteering is suitable for all ages but children must be supervised by their parent or guardian while taking part
Minimum ages are provided as a guide only, participation is dependent on safety equipment fitting correctly and children being able to use the equipment rather than age. The Activity Centre will not allow anyone to participate if the safety equipment does not fit correctly.
All activities will have a qualified instructor however we request that any child aged 18 and under is supervised at each activity by a parent/carer who is either taking part or spectating.
Children under the minimum age are welcome to join us for the day but will be unable to take part in the activities and must be supervised by an adult at all times. You are welcome to parent swap when taking part in land activities. Please reserve a ‘Spectator Place’ for children too young to join in.
CAN I CHOOSE MY ACTIVITIES BEFORE THE DAY?
You can choose which activities you would like to take part in when you arrive on the day on a first come first served basis. Each activity is limited to 8 participants due to instructor/participant ratios.
CAN I JUST SPECTATE?
Yes. You are more than welcome to join us for the day and cheer on your friends/family who are participating. Please make a ‘Spectator Only’ reservation when booking your place(s) so we know you are coming, and we can cater for you.
WHAT IF I DON’T WANT TO TAKE PART IN A PARTICULAR ACTIVITY?
You will have the chance to choose your preferred activities on the day (subject to availability) but if there is an activity that you are unsure about and would just like to try please feel free to give it a go – you can always opt to spectate if it doesn’t turn out to be your thing – the most important thing is that you have fun!
WHAT DO THESE ACTIVITIES INVOLVE?
The final activities are still to be confirmed with the centre but we expect to include some of the following activities
Archery
Age: 6 +
Channel your inner Celtic Warrior and test your skills in the art of archery. This instructor led session will enable you to learn the traditional art of archery and compete against friends and family. The activity instructor will support you throughout to ensure everyone enjoys the session safely.
Axe Throwing
Age: 10+
This instructor led session will give you the opportunity to have a go at axe throwing and see if you can hit the target! All participants must be physically able to throw an axe at the target safely.
Katakanu’ing
Age 5+ (5-7 year olds must be in the same vessel as parent/guardian)
This craft are two canoes attached together, catamaran-style, allowing you to fit up to 6 people onto the one magnificent vessel. This is a pretty stable craft, so unless you throw yourself in the water, you’re not likely to get really wet.
Kayaking
Age: 5+ (5-7 year olds must be in the same kayak as parent/guardian)
A perfect opportunity for participants to be introduced to kayaking. The qualified instructors will deliver a session so participants feel confident on how to paddle in the boat and be safe on the water. Each participant will be in a single or double kayak with a double-bladed paddle.
Laser Clay Shooting
Age 6+ however 6-7 year olds may need assistance holding the gun due to it’s weight
Our trained instructors will guide you through several rounds of laser clay shooting. They’ll give you tips to hit the target and you’ll have a lot of fun trying out the different games while competing with your friends.
Orienteering
Age: no minimum age but children must be supervised by a parent or guardian
Orienteering is an exciting outdoor adventure sport that exercises the mind and body. The aim is to navigate between checkpoints or controls marked on a special orienteering map
Sailing
Age: 5+ (5-7 year olds must be in the same kayak as parent/guardian)
Sailing gives you the opportunity to helm (steer) your own boat around the beautiful surroundings of Llandegfedd lake using nothing but wind power. Depending on the length of your session you could learn how to rig your boat and different turning techniques such as tacking and jibing.
The centre have accessible boats which can be used in conjunction with a hoist which can be used to hoist wheelchair users into the boats. These boats are very stable and easy to use.
Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Age 5+ (5-7 year olds must be on the same SUP as parent/guardian)
Paddle boarding will put your balance to the test if you decide to give standing a go. If you’re not feeling up to standing, that’s no issue, you can stay on your knees if you prefer. Your activity instructor will do as much as they can to make the session as enjoyable as possible. Paddle boarding can be difficult in the wind, just as a heads up!.
I HAVE A DISABILITY OR MOBILITY ISSUES: CAN I STILL TAKE PART?
Some activities may have restrictions but we have tried to ensure there are different activities available throughout the day to accommodate different levels of mobility. If you need assistance from another person we ask that they too register for the event.
If you have any particular concerns, please get in touch with us by emailing us at info@behcetsuk.org or call us on 0345 130 7328 to discuss your disability or mobility along with any other information you feel we should be made aware of so we can consult with the centre to make your visit more enjoyable.
WHERE CAN I TAKE A BREAK?
We have exclusive use of the breakout room above the watersports activity centre which is available anytime throughout the day and solely for Behçet’s UK friends and family day guests. The room has stunning views overlooking the lake and also has a balcony with seating if the weather is nice.
WHAT FOOD AND/OR REFRESHMENTS WILL THERE BE?
A sandwich buffet lunch will be provided so please let us know of any dietary requirements or allergies when reserving your place(s). Refreshments of tea, coffee, squash and snacks are provided throughout the day. We also suggest you bring a refillable water bottle to keep with you during the day.
WILL IT GO AHEAD IF IT’S RAINING?
Yes. As the weather is notoriously unpredictable in the UK please keep an eye on the weather forecast and bring wet weather gear if it looks a little soggy. A large part of the day’s activity will take place outside, so please come prepared.
WHAT SHALL I WEAR/BRING?
Wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather, which you won’t mind if it gets wet or dirty, with changes and spare footwear in case it does. Please remember you will be outside for the majority of your day.
We suggest laying loose comfortable clothing, (not jeans) and/or shorts and t-shirt if the weather is warm. Below is an idea of what to wear but is not an exhaustive list and refer to the details below for the individual activity guidance:
- Shirt / T-shirt (wicking/synthetic is best for quick drying)
- Fleece / jumper
- Tracksuit bottoms / trousers (not jeans)
- Closed toe footwear – trainers / walking shoes
- Waterproof coat/top & trousers (if rain forecast)
- Towel
- Sun cream & sun hat
Long hair must be tied back and loose jewellery removed.
If it is a sunny day please ensure you apply and pack plenty of sun cream, of a high factor, a water bottle, as well as a sun hat. You will be able refill your water bottle on site.
Watersports
For all the water activities the centre will offer a wetsuit. If you have your own wetsuit, you can bring that with you. It’s recommended to wear a wicking top/rash vest underneath if you have one and swimming costume/shorts for comfort. Please avoid wearing cotton t-shirts underneath your wetsuit as these just stay wet and make you cold.
Please wear closed toe footwear suitable for getting wet e.g. old trainers or neoprene shoes. Flip flops and crocs are unsuitable and may get lost in the lake.
You are likely to get wet so please bring along a towel, change of clothes and a plastic bag to put your wet belongings into.
Changing facilities and showers are available.
In sunny weather remember your sunhat and sun cream.
Land activities
All land activities require closed toe footwear with good grip, such as trainers.
Wear loose comfortable clothing that you can easily move around in. Joggers, leggings and outdoor trousers are all excellent, please no jeans.
For archery long long-sleeved tops work well to help protect your arm from the string (arm bracers are provided for protection).
If the forecast is rainy or cold please bring a waterproof jacket (and trousers, if you have them to) keep you warm and dry.
In sunny weather remember your sunhat and sun cream.
ARE THERE ANY STORAGE FACILITIES TO LEAVE THINGS ON SITE?
You are welcome to leave your possessions in our breakout room but items are left at your own risk – please note the room will not be locked and may be unoccupied during activities.
There are lockers available on site.
Please don’t leave valuables unattended.
HOW DO I GET THERE?
Google/Apple Maps – search for “Llandegfedd Lake”
Satnav use postcode “NP4 0SY”
However, the best route to the lake is via the village of New Inn and Sluvad Road. If approaching from the south, please do not exit the A4042 at the Croesyceiliog (Crematorium) Roundabout but continue on to the Craig-y-Felin (New Inn) Roundabout and turn right onto Newport Road and follow the signage thereafter on to Sluvad Road. Ensure you continue over the hill and past the water treatment works and you will see Llandegfedd Lake before you.
NOTE: On Sluvad Road, the satnav may encourage you to turn off the road. Disregard satnav and continue straight on until you see the reservoir and then follow the road across the dam and on to the site car park.
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visitor centre (additional blue badge spaces): ///worker.pegged.sprinkler
WHERE CAN I PARK?
The main visitor or ‘top’ car park is a short walk away from the visitor and watersports activity centre down an accessible path.
There are two spaces for blue badge holders outside the watesports activity centre with further blue badge spaces outside the visitor centre.
Please ensure you leave the car parks by 5pm as gates are locked overnight.
Parking is charged at a flat rate of £3 for the day (prices correct as of March 2024).
I’D LIKE TO BOOK OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION, WHERE CAN I STAY?
There are guest houses and hotels, including budget chains, in the area. We are unable to offer any recommendations as we don’t have sufficient knowledge of the local area but if you do need any help finding accommodation please get in touch.
WILL THERE BE PHOTOGRAPHS?
We will be taking photographs throughout the event and by attending you are consenting for your image to be used by Behçet’s UK to promote our future work and events in printed or electronic form (for example website and social media).
If you do not wish to have your photograph taken and/or used please inform us by phoning 0345 130 7328 or emailing us at info@behcetsuk.org. Alternatively, you can inform Gemma Darlow on the day of the event.
We will not include the personal details of any person in a photograph whether in printed or electronic form without gaining specific consent.
We will store the photographs securely for up to 5 years. Your consent will automatically expire after this period which means we will no longer create new promotional material, whether in printed or electronic form without obtaining your consent again. Any promotional material created within the consensual period will remain in circulation until the end of its promotional life unless deemed inappropriate to do so.
Please note that websites can be seen worldwide and not just in the UK where UK law applies.
You are entitled to withdraw your consent at any time in writing or by emailing info@behcetsuk.org. On receiving your withdrawal of consent, your image will not be used in future publications and removed from our website and social media accounts however your image may continue to appear in materials (printed and electronic) already in circulation.