Core group message 2022

We have had to increase the membership fees for Dance Camp this year beyond the usual amount to allow for inflation. The core group feels we should explain the reasons for the increase, and assure members that we are doing our best to keep the price affordable.

Running Dance Camp is achieved by the workforce and the core group. Camp has survived throughout the pandemic thanks to generous support from past members and various fundraising efforts. We are also very lucky to enjoy the site at the farm, which asks only a nominal payment for using the land when camp is held.

When planning for 2022 we faced many uncertainties and all the costs have risen of course, which we expected. In February this year, we decided to hold the camp this Summer if humanly possible and find solutions where necessary to any remaining problems caused by the pandemic.

Repairs and upgrades to the site infrastructure are regular budget items and this year we face more than usual following winter storm damage. The compost toilets are in need of a lot of work, and the sauna repair is ongoing. Increases in materials costs and transport are much higher than expected.

We have also invested in new facilities for the camp that will help to reduce future costs. Investment in the camp infrastructure is a firm commitment to the future of the camp and has involved some borrowing. The wooden solar building offers storage for the site equipment that otherwise was transported to and from the field each year. This simplifies providing electricity for the café lighting and fridges etc. this is now a legal requirement for food hygiene regulations. The café and shop generate some income which is returned to the camp each year. However, both need further investment to keep them viable and within the regulations.

Dance Camp has enviable low overheads and so any surplus funds generated by membership fees are invested back into the camp. We have tried to keep the membership price affordable and are always open to requests for concessions where needed.

We always welcome your feedback on all aspects of Dance Camp Wales.

Core Group 2022