‘Every child deserves the chance to explore beyond their postcode’

One of the things I love most about our small community is the "get-up-and-do-it" spirit that comes so naturally to so many people. It doesn’t come quite as naturally to me, but now that I’m lucky enough to have some time, I’ve decided it is my turn to give it a try.

According to a 2023 survey by Action for Children, 8 per cent of UK families have never been on a family holiday. For me, this statistic highlights the significant number of children missing out on the enriching experiences that holidays can provide. Time away from daily routines offers opportunities for learning, development and creating lasting family memories.

I have recently launched A Home Away, a platform and community that matches second homeowners who want to give something back with families who need a break.

Every child deserves the chance to explore beyond their postcode, and yet today, figures show that over half are concerned they won’t be able to afford a holiday this summer. 

Rosa Doherty's family holiday[Missing Credit]

As the cost-of-living crisis grows, this figure is also likely to increase. When families are forced to make choices, such as heating or eating, the idea of a holiday feels even further out of reach. Yet I believe that both – nourishment and rest – are about dignity. Families and children deserve both.

Like many of you, as a child, I was lucky enough to be taken on regular holidays by my parents – to Ireland, camping in France, walking in the Lake District.

Rosa's son on holiday[Missing Credit]

"You don’t know how lucky you are," my parents would tell me as they packed the luggage around us in the back of the car. Now, as a parent myself, I realise how they must have been frustrated by my complaints that we weren’t flying somewhere more luxurious, especially when our holidays were filled with so much adventure, quality time, fun and wonder. They are now core memories that I treasure and which I'm passionate about sharing with my own children.

Even then, my parents would remind me that it was not inconceivable that kids in my school might never have left the area they were brought up in.

I have never stopped thinking about that – and about what time away can actually mean for a family and for an individual.

I’ve also always been aware that, in my social circle at least, it is not unusual for someone to have access to a second home. And in my experience, people who do often don’t hesitate to share that space with family and friends at no cost.

So, my idea is quite simple: Why not go one step further and share that gift with someone who really needs it?

Rosa with her children[Missing Credit]

At A Home Away, we match second homeowners with families who have never had the opportunity to go away. Since launching my idea with a website last month, several people have contacted me to say they would be happy to sign up to help families who are facing financial hardship, caring for loved ones or rebuilding after a crisis, by giving something many of us take for granted – a chance to rest, to breathe and to be together in a new place.

This isn’t about a luxury stay in a five-star hotel. It is about a break from the everyday stresses of life and work. It is about sharing something you treasure and passing on that passion to someone else.

Experiencing new places plays a vital role in a child’s development – sparking imagination, building confidence, and nurturing social and emotional growth. Holidays don’t just offer a break – they offer perspective, curiosity, and hope.

For families, a few days away can lift the weight of everyday stress, strengthen relationships, and support mental health. It’s about dignity, access, and kindness.

Rosa Doherty's daughter enjoying the beach[Missing Credit]

So, if you own a second home, I need your help. And if you know someone who might benefit from a break, I would love to hear from you too. My goal this year is simple but ambitious – I want to open up 50 second homes across the UK to the people who need them most.

Donate a week, a weekend, or any time your property is empty. I will handle the matching and logistics. You simply provide the space.

By opening your second home, you can help level the playing field in the most human way possible.

ahomeaway.org.uk or click here