A renowned Exmoor activity centre catering for people with disabilities is urging the Government to provide financial support so that it can re-open after lockdown. The popular Calvert Trust centre has already lost £1 million in income through the pandemic.

“It is imperative that activity centres re-open in the future to welcome guests back when it is safe,” said centre director Andrew Laming.

“Their services will be essential in providing outdoor activities for families and individuals who have spent a long time shielding, isolating and following lockdown guidelines. Centres will play a crucial role in children’s education and improving mental and physical well-being.”

Mr Laming said Calvert Trust Exmoor has been severely affected by the Covid-19 crisis and the lockdowns. The charity and outdoor adventure centre provides a holiday destination for people with physical, learning, sensory and behavioural disabilities.

It closed with the first lockdown in March 2020 and has remained shut apart from a few weeks in September and October. It is thought that more than £1 million has been lost in income.

Mr Laming said: “National Lottery funding alongside generous donations and public fundraisers have helped support the centre. Yet the future of the charity remains in doubt and it will be financially hindered for years to come unless the Government can provide aid.

“In April we will be marking 25 years of service. At the start of the first lockdown, it seemed like we wouldn’t reach this milestone, which would have been devastating for people with disabilities.

“The major concern right now is about what might happen in 2021. Without help, all activity centres will continue to struggle. Which is why we are asking the Government to provide long-term financial assistance to see us, and others, through the pandemic and beyond.

“Because our facilities are so accessible for people with disabilities, often a visit is the only time our guests can experience what many people take for granted, and accessible activity breaks will be much-needed by many in the future to help rebuild their lives after the negative effects of Covid-19 and social isolation.”

Activities on offer at the centre include abseiling, climbing, zip-wiring, canoeing, biking and horse-riding.

A UK Government petition entitled ‘Financial support for Outdoor Residential Centres during closure’ has gained more than 13,400 signatures. To sign, go to petition.parliament.uk/petitions/552754