Freedom 2 Be 2024

Freedom 2 Be is an annual summer support camp for 11–17-year-olds* growing up with HIV in the UK and Ireland. 

It’s a chance to meet with peers in an inclusive and welcoming space, learn more about HIV and join an action-packed week of workshops and activities, from adventure sports to creative arts, yoga and wellbeing.  

Up to 100 young people usually attend, and some of the camp volunteers are people living with HIV.

This year, camp will run from Tuesday 30 July – Saturday 3 August in Derbyshire. All costs are covered, and travel will be organised and provided by Chiva.

We have now closed registrations for this year’s camp.

See what happened at the 2023 camp, where the week’s theme was “Unlock Yourself”.

Why go?

We’ve been organising Freedom 2 Be for over 10 years, and with three main aims for the young people attending: 

  • Increasing HIV knowledge
  • Building a network of support (including lifelong friendships!)
  • Boosting confidence and future ambitions

Last year, participants demonstrated a significant increase in HIV-related knowledge over the week, getting more questions about HIV correct post-camp and attempting to answer more of them. They also made friends and became more confident.

“I felt comfortable for the first time in myself, and I feel good about myself.”
– Camp participant

“I love the involvement of everybody in this camp and how everybody comes together as a unit, as a community. And you know, I just love how it is all the time.”
– Camp participant

We also always get very positive feedback from participants, parents and volunteers, with people returning year after year, creating a close-knit, supportive community.

“My son was very happy. He informed me the camping was very informative and since he came back from the trip he is a changed person, proactive with his medication and he looks much happier and bright.”
– Parent/ carer

Older than 17 and still want to get involved?
Check out our volunteer opportunities

For more information

To discuss anything about camp with us, get in touch with Abi Carter on 07807705062 or at abi.carter@chiva.org.uk.

Already registered? Find all the key information about what to expect at camp here.

Please also see our Data Privacy Notice for information on how we collect and store personal data on people taking part in our activities.