Welcoming Neurodiverse Holidaymakers with My Safe Place Southern.
When a significant segment of potential holidaymakers feels excluded from mainstream travel, it presents not only a social challenge but a commercial opportunity. Across the UK, millions of neurodivergent families quietly opt out of breaks that many others take for granted. The reasons are rarely about a lack of desire to travel. More often, they stem from environments that are overwhelming, staff who feel unprepared, and accommodation that has never been designed with their needs in mind. My Safe Place was created to change that. Founded by industry veteran Karen Mason, My Safe Place is more than a product line or a marketing initiative. It is a movement towards inclusion within the holiday park sector one rooted in lived experience, decades of professional insight, and a clear recognition that the industry can, and should, do better. A Conversation That Sparked Change The catalyst for My Safe Place was deeply personal. Karen, who has spent more than 36 years working within the holiday park industry, was speaking with her brother, a father of three neurodiverse children. His words were simple but devastating. Because overseas travel felt impossible, the family had tried several UK caravan holidays. Both experiences were so stressful that they vowed never to return to a holiday park again. For Karen, the comment landed hard. She understood exactly what he meant. Holiday parks, despite their family-friendly branding, are rarely designed with neurodivergent guests in mind. Bright lights, unpredictable noise levels, crowded entertainment venues, unclear signage, rigid check-in systems and staff lacking specialist awareness can turn a hopeful getaway into an exhausting ordeal. The very features that create energy and excitement for some visitors can become overwhelming sensory triggers for others. Yet Karen also saw something else — potential. If parks could be adapted thoughtfully, they would not only become accessible but genuinely welcoming. And if anyone understood how to navigate manufacturers, operators and supply chains to make that happen, it was someone who had spent over three decades in the sector. Rethinking the Holiday Experience For many neurodivergent individuals, preparation for a holiday can feel like a military operation. Parents must anticipate every possible trigger, pack specialist equipment, research environments in forensic detail, and develop contingency plans for every scenario. The cognitive and emotional load can outweigh the promise of rest. My Safe Place challenges that reality by asking a simple question: what if the environment did more of the work? Imagine arriving at a park where signage is clear, consistent and easy to follow. Where lighting in accommodation can be adjusted to suit sensory preferences. Where décor is calm rather than visually overwhelming. Where quiet zones are available away from high-traffic areas. Where check-in procedures allow flexibility rather than queues and confusion. And where staff understand that a meltdown is not “bad behaviour” but a sign of distress requiring calm, informed support. Inclusion, as Karen frequently emphasises, is not merely an ethical stance. It is sound business. By widening accessibility, parks expand their customer base, build loyalty within a deeply connected community, and differentiate themselves in a competitive leisure market. Word-of-mouth recommendations within neurodivergent networks carry enormous weight. A positive experience can ripple far beyond one booking. Designing Safe Holidays That Feel Like Home My Safe Place was born as the vehicle to turn vision into reality. Months of research followed that initial conversation, with Karen collaborating closely with families, therapists and neurodiversity specialists to ensure authenticity and practicality. The result is bespoke holiday accommodation designed from the ground up with neurodivergent needs at its core. Key features include sensory-considered bedrooms with low-stimulation décor, adjustable lighting to reduce harsh glare, carefully planned layouts that minimise clutter, and dedicated quiet spaces. Central to many designs is a specialist neurodiverse safe bed, offering both physical security and soothing reassurance for individuals who require enclosed or protective sleep environments. Karen has worked alongside established manufacturers and are bringing these designs to market, including Sunseeker Holiday Homes, Beverley Leisure Homes, Omar Group, andaims to work with all holiday home manufacturers in the near future.. This collaboration signals something important: mainstream manufacturers are recognising that inclusive design is not a niche add-on but a forward-thinking evolution of their core offering. Beyond Accommodation: A Multi-Faceted Approach My Safe Place also delivers staff training programmes for park teams, equipping them with practical tools to understand, interpret and respond appropriately to neurodiverse guests. This includes guidance on communication differences, sensory sensitivities, de-escalation strategies and the importance of predictability. The initiative extends into the wider park environment. In some cases, this may involve the creation of sensory rooms or designated calm areas. In others, it could mean improved step-by-step visitor information, visual guides, clearer maps or adjustments to entertainment schedules to offer quieter sessions. Karen envisions My Safe Place as a consultative, one-stop resource for parks, seeking to improve, and rather than offering a single product they will support parks through the full process from design and sourcing to staff development and marketing. Importantly, the My Safe Place website will also function as a trusted directory for families, signposting parks and venues that have committed to inclusive standards. For parents who currently spend hours researching suitability, that reassurance alone could transform decision-making. A Sector Ready for Evolution The holiday park industry has evolved dramatically in recent decades, embracing luxury lodges, experiential stays and digital transformation. “Inclusivity is the next frontier and we are excited that not only do we have the support of industry giants like Hoseasons, but The National Autistic Society is exploring endorsements for the My Safe Place Southern accreditation scheme and bespoke accommodation. There have also been recent conversations with VisitEngland who are broadly supportive of initiatives that improve accessibility and inclusivity within England’s tourism offer” says Karen Mason Neurodiversity is not rare. It is part of the fabric of modern society. When parks fail to accommodate this reality, they inadvertently exclude a substantial audience. When they For an industry built on the promise of creating happy memories, the challenge is clear. True hospitality means designing spaces where everyone can participate and not as an afterthought, but as standard.
Echo Financial Services – proud to support the caravan and holiday park sector
Echo Financial Services, one of the UK’s most experienced specialist financial advisory firms, has reaffirmed its commitment to the caravan and holiday park sector with an expanded suite of services designed to address the industry’s unique tax, regulatory, and operational challenges. With over five decades of hands-on experience, Echo continues to be a trusted partner to park owners navigating everything from HMRC disputes to succession planning and capital investment. Echo’s reputation is built on deep sector immersion, having worked with park operators across England, Wales, and Scotland on matters ranging from income classification and VAT treatment to park acquisitions, disposals, and generational transitions. The firm’s long-standing affiliation with the British Holiday & Home Parks Association (BH&HPA) underscores its commitment to the industry and its understanding of the pressures facing independent and family-run parks. Tailored Services for Park Operators Echo’s caravan park advisory services include: Echo also provides ongoing strategic advice to park operators considering diversification into glamping, eco-tourism, or mixed-use developments, ensuring that new ventures are structured to maximise tax efficiency and regulatory compliance. “We don’t offer generic advice — we offer sector-specific solutions,” said a spokesperson for Echo Financial Services. “Our clients are park owners, not just taxpayers. We understand the operational realities of running a site, and we tailor our guidance to protect value, reduce risk, and support long-term growth.” Web: www.echofinancialservices.co.uk
Raising the Bar for PVCu Decking Balustrade Safety, Design and Installation
Quanex brand Liniar continues to enhance its Outdoor Range, with the upcoming launch of its fully redesigned PVCu Decking Handrail Bracket system, which will include the UK’s only fully foiled, adjustable handrail brackets. Designed to make the creation of bespoke deck shapes easier and perfectly colour-matched to a market-leading balustrade range, Outdoor Sales Director Mike Hobson discusses Liniar’s commitment to ensuring its customers have access to premium, regulatory compliant solutions that make both specifying and installation easier. Consistent quality, premium in-house foiling Mike explains: “One of the most common frustrations we see with PVCu handrail brackets on the market is inconsistent or poor-quality finishes. Mismatched colours and uneven laminating or coatings can undermine the overall look of a decking installation, particularly on high-end holiday parks where not just performance, but aesthetics matter.” “Our new bracket system features a premium foiled finish on all extruded components, which is applied in Liniar’s state-of-the-art, in-house Lamination Hall. This ensures consistent quality, and a perfect finish colour matched with our PVCu balustrade, fencing and entire product ranges – giving park operators and installers confidence that every element works seamlessly together from visual cohesion to fitting compatibility.” Installer-friendly design saves time on site Complex assembly and awkward adjustment are another pain point for installers. Brackets that require excessive measuring, reworking or specialist tools can quickly erode margins and slow projects down. Mike continues: “Liniar’s adjustable Handrail Bracket system has been engineered with simplicity in mind. The range offers horizontal adjustment from 0–45°, vertical adjustment from 0–15°, alongside a fixed 30° stepped bracket – all within a seamless, easy-to-understand system. Features such as the angled gauge to assist assembly and reduced bracket size for cleaner sightlines help installers achieve accurate, professional results quickly,” The result is faster installation, easier on-site adjustment and greater flexibility for bespoke decking shapes and layouts. Full regulatory compliance, for safety and peace of mind Crucially for park operators, the system is fully BS6180 compliant. This means the system offers reassurance that safety has not been compromised for aesthetics. “Visible fixings can detract from even the most carefully designed decking area. Our new brackets eliminate this issue entirely, with no visible fixings once installed, while still delivering a solid and stable fixing system fully tested to meet the requirements of Part K Building Regulations for barrier loading,” explains Mike. “These brackets don’t just look better – they perform better,” he adds. “They integrate perfectly with our balustrade system and meet all relevant regulations, which is essential for commercial leisure environments.” Intelligent design, backed by expert inhouse-support The launch of its fully redesigned Decking Handrail Bracket system and brand-new adjustable additions reinforce Liniar’s long-term commitment to intelligently designed PVCu decking, fencing and balustrade solutions for better outdoor living spaces. “By listening to the needs of installers and operators, and investing in innovation and manufacturing capability, we’re supporting the sector with solutions that are practical, compliant and built to last,” says Mike. He concludes: “Besides market-leading products, our in-house team of industry experts are easily accessible and always ready to go the extra mile, offering Liniar customers advice, guidance and support at every stage of their decking construction projects.” To see our full decking range visit: www.liniar.co.uk/decking
The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show 2026
The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show 2026 is where the industry meets both the trade and the public. It’s the show shaping the future of park and leisure homes. The Stoneleigh Park based show has firmly established itself as one of the most significant events in the UK’s park home and leisure home sector. Held annually at the site in Warwickshire, the show unites manufacturers, park operators, suppliers, and service providers, forming a central meeting point that highlights a steadily moving market. What makes the event particularly valuable is its scale and its ability to connect consumers directly with the industry. Visitors can explore a wide range of fully furnished homes, each demonstrating the latest in design, build quality, and innovation. How does the sector benefit? For manufacturers, the show provides a platform to unveil new models, test emerging trends, and engage with an audience actively considering their next move. For park operators, it offers direct access to potential residents and holiday home buyers who are seeking clarity, reassurance, and inspiration. The show attracts a diverse and highly engaged audience, from down-sizers looking for a more manageable lifestyle to families exploring flexible leisure options. This creates a commercially productive environment where conversations are meaningful and decision making is often accelerated by the ability to compare homes and speak to experts in person. Beyond the homes on display, the event has evolved into a broader industry hub. Financial advisors, part-exchange specialists, insurance providers, and aftercare services contribute to a complete ecosystem of support. This holistic approach mirrors the sector’s increasing professionalism and the rising expectations of consumers seeking longterm lifestyle solutions. As demand for alternative living and leisure models continues to grow, The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show remains a vital indicator for the industry. It not only showcases the best of what the sector offers today but also highlights the trends shaping its future. Contact Us The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show 📍 NAEC Stoneleigh, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2LH 📧 organisers@parkandleisurehomeshows.co.uk 📞 01789 491451 🌐 www.parkhomeandleisure.co.uk
Serenity Parks Launches Nationwide Acquisition Drive Following €500m Investment
Serenity Parks, a resident-focused residential park home operator, is on the hunt for new parks after it secured a five-year, €500m investment from a US-based private equity firm. It has opened a dedicated acquisition platform to accelerate its nationwide expansion with the company vowing it is “well-equipped to pursue opportunities swiftly and decisively”. The Doncaster based firm says it is building on its long history as a park operator as it expands into residential parks. Serenity Parks has previously developed parks in Kent, Cornwall, Cheshire and Devon, including the high-end residential development at Kingsdown Meadow in Kent. “This funding has allowed us to complete the purchase of our first park in December, with a further four park purchases due to complete by the end of spring 2026, heralding the start of an exciting new chapter for us,” said Gary Burns of Serenity Parks. “These parks will be developed to provide high-quality residential accommodation and facilities as we strive to continue to elevate park home ownership.” Serenity completed on a new development site in Norfolk (East of England) in Q4 2025, strengthening its presence in key regions. Four further assets are due to complete in Q1 2026, marking significant momentum in the company’s growth strategy and its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional residential communities. It is anticipated that homes at the first confirmed acquisition will be available for sale from May 2026. Over the next five years, Serenity Parks aims to acquire both fully operational parks and greenfield development sites across the UK, targeting multi-site portfolios or individual caravan parks licensed for permanent, year-round occupation. This investment by a leading global real estate investor, with experience across a broad range of markets, including residential park homes in the US and Australia, demonstrates strong confidence in Serenity Parks’ planned growth trajectory and long-term vision. “We have always created high-quality developments, and this funding will allow us to carry these standards forward and build developments which meet the expectations of our buyers, providing features such as EV charging points, strong transport links to nearby towns, on-park sports and recreation facilities, and landscaped spaces that promote community, relaxation and health,” said Serenity Parks. Backed by a highly engaged management team with deep expertise in park home development and operations, the company’s philosophy remains simple: put residents first. “This means eliminating historical barriers to purchase, such as resale commission fees on new residential developments, to make ownership more accessible and rewarding for future homeowners. We create safe, supportive communities for a care-free lifestyle, whether for a single site or a larger portfolio,” a spokesperson added. Serenity Parks remains keen to engage with existing park owners across the UK who are considering a sale, whether for retirement, succession planning, asset realisation or strategic exit. The company offers a professional and discreet acquisition process, fair valuations, rapid decision-making and a focus on positive outcomes for all stakeholders, including residents. Park owners, operators or portfolio holders interested in exploring options are invited to contact Serenity Parks confidentially via the dedicated acquisitions page at www.serenityparks.co.uk/acquisitions or through the enquiry form on the website. For more information about Serenity Parks and its commitment to delivering high-quality residential park home communities, visit www.serenityparks.co.uk.
Devon holiday park owner welcomed as Chair of HARPA
Claire Flower, Director of Beverley Holidays in Paignton, has become the National Chair of the Holiday and Residential Parks Association (HARPA). Claire was elected to the office by fellow members of the association to which some 3,000 holiday and residential park businesses in Britain belong. She will now be helping to spearhead a fast-growing industry which generates £12.2 billion of visitor spending each year, and supports over 226,700 full-time jobs. In her new role, Claire will take on a range of responsibilities, including talks with national and regional governments on matters affecting the parks industry. It’s a task for which she is well qualified having served as the association’s Vice Chair for the past two years, and held senior posts within various HARPA executive committees. Claire is also an active member of HARPA’s Devon Branch, and is a Director of the English Riviera BID Company for which she additionally acts as its Media Spokesperson. Beverley Holidays, of which Claire is a Director, was established by her family, the Jeavons, just over 65 years ago on a small pocket of farmland with spectacular ocean views. Through a policy of continual investment, it has grown to become one of Devon’s most highly acclaimed parks, winning a raft of awards for its high standards and environmental responsibility. Claire has also been personally honoured for her local community engagement, and has been presented with Visit Devon’s annual award for Outstanding Contribution to Devon Tourism. Claire said she is especially excited to be assuming her role as National Chair at a pivotal point in the association’s 75-year history. In January this year, the British Holiday and Home Parks Association became known as HARPA – but, says Claire, much more than just a fresh identity has come into being: “We now represent even more positively the modern and dynamic park businesses which our members operate, and helping them realise their ambitions for the future,” she said. “HARPA will be championing the interests of our members with even greater vigour, further reinforcing the influence our association has among decision-makers. “We will also be highlighting more strongly the breadth and diversity of today’s park businesses, and the many benefits they bring to local economies and communities. “I want to see our association help members to grow by embracing change, collaborating, and by supporting and mentoring the upcoming generation of park leaders. “My family has been actively involved with our association for many decades, and I feel proud and privileged to be able to play a part in its continuing evolution,” added Claire.
Caravan Guard pays tribute to founder Peter Wilby while reaffirming family leadership
It is with deep sadness that the Wilby family announces the passing of Caravan Guard Founder and Chairman, Peter Wilby, aged 78. The company remains 100% family owned and led by Peter’s son, Ryan Wilby, who has served as Managing Director for the last 12 years. Caravan Guard’s well established senior leadership team (including Peter’s three children) also continue in their roles, and the same family run values remain firmly embedded across the business. There are no changes to Caravan Guard’s day to day operations or strategic ambitions. Ryan Wilby, Managing Director of Caravan Guard, said: “Dad was the kindest, wisest and most inspiring person anyone could ever hope to meet. He was a generous mentor to so many and will be hugely missed. As a family, we remain committed to continuing his legacy, supporting our people, customers, and the wider community with the same integrity, care and passion that defined his leadership.” Peter Wilby founded Wilby Insurance Brokers in 1984 alongside his wife, Nora Wilby. In 1995, the couple went on to launch Caravan Guard. Their three children, Sally, Louise and Ryan, all joined the business in various roles early in their careers, and all three became directors in 2007. Together with the wider senior leadership team, the family has developed Caravan Guard into one of the most successful leisure insurance brands in the UK, and it continues to demonstrate strong and sustainable growth year on year. Peter’s compassion extended far beyond the business. A passionate supporter of multiple charities, with many substantial donations to fund advanced cancer treatment equipment for the Yorkshire Cancer Trust, Overgate Hospice’s Big Build Appeal and Heart Research UK. Personally, he took part in numerous Great Yorkshire Bike Rides, raising significant sums to help make a difference across communities throughout the region. Peter was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in June 2023 and faced his illness with characteristic positivity, strength and resilience throughout. Peter’s funeral will be held at 11am on Monday 9th March at Halifax Minster, HX1 1QL. Following the service, Peter’s life will be celebrated at Halifax Golf Club, Ogden, HX2 8XR.
Danny Dyer is out to save the UK caravan park
TV stars Danny and Dani Dyer hit the small screen tonight (February 24) with their new show The Dyers’ Caravan Park. Danny Dyer has tackled a lot in his showbiz career – gangsters, geezers, even the Bard himself. But now he’s facing his biggest challenge yet: investing in and running a holiday caravan park with his daughter Dani by his side. As Danny said himself: “Clarkson’s got his Farm, Hammond’s got his workshop. If Jamie Oliver can save school dinners – why can’t I save the great British holiday”? With childhood nostalgia in his heart and business ambition in his sights, Danny and Dani are diving headfirst into the £7 billion holiday park industry. They’ll stop at nothing in their quest to transform a caravan park into a place that lives up to Danny’s misty-eyed memories of the best holidays he’s ever had in his life. But this venture is no knees-up at the Queen Vic. Danny will soon discover that running the park is a world away from the life of an A-list actor as he faces everything from dodgy plumbing to demanding punters, rogue acts to reinvigorating the restaurant menu. But will his new business partners, the park’s residents or even Dani be on board with his grand, nostalgic vision? With an unforgettable cast of real-life characters, The Dyers’ Caravan Park is a hilarious, heartwarming and occasionally chaotic trip into what really makes the Great British holiday so great. Danny Dyer commented: “What you might not know about me is I love a caravan, and I love a caravan site. So, with my daughter Dani by my side, as the voice of reason, I’m taking charge of one. I’m chucking in a few quid, and will try and make the greatest of British holidays cool again. Now this could be a triumph; or a complete f***ing failure. But there’s only one way to find out and that’s to roll the f***ing dice.” Dani Dyer said: “My dad wants to get involved in the caravan park and I’m all in: I love a caravan, so why not? My dad is a very friendly person – he’s good at bringing everyone in – but has he got what it takes to make a success of this? I think he has, just so long as people don’t decide to go to Magaluf.” Phil Edgar-Jones, Executive Director, Unscripted Originals at Sky, commented: “The Great British Holiday is about to get a turbo-charged makeover like never before as the Dyers’ Caravan Park prepares to open its gates. If anyone can make caravanning cool again it’s Danny and Dani, and we cannot wait to see them bring the fun.” Ben Wicks, Creative Director, Entertainment at Expectation said: “We are thrilled about working with Danny and Dani Dyer as they try to save the Great British Summer holiday. Their passion for caravanning is unlimited, yet their experience of running a caravan park is extremely limited. Based on our extensive research, running a caravan park if you don’t know what you are doing is quite frankly, a nightmare. We feel this is the perfect setting for a series as rich in comedy, jeopardy, and warmth – even if the weather isn’t – and we’re delighted that Sky feel the same.” As reported, The Dyers’ Caravan Park was helped by HARPA members Willerby and and distributor Southern Counties Leisure. The two firms took part in a high-profile publicity event in central London, providing a luxury Willerby holiday home as the venue for media interviews in support of the new Sky original series. The brand-new Sky Original six-part series from Expectation (Clarkson’s Farm, Miracles, Dynamo is Dead) airs at 9pm on Sky One every Tuesday.
Danny & Dani Dyer launch caravan park for new Sky TV show
TV stars Danny and Dani Dyer are set to boost the holiday park sector with a new show on Sky TV. The celebrity father-daughter duo will be featured as they try their hand at running their own Dyers’ Caravan Park. The new series, which begins on February 24, has been aided by leading holiday homes manufacturer Willerby and distributor Southern Counties Leisure. The two companies took part in a high-profile publicity event in central London, providing a luxury Willerby holiday home as the venue for media interviews in support of the new Sky original series. The famous Cockney actor and his daughter will be featured diving headfirst into the £7 billion holiday park industry, with the goal of renovating Priory Hill and Nutts Farm Holiday Park at Leysdown on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent. They will aim to create a place that lives up to Danny’s misty-eyed memories of his favourite childhood holidays. As a sole Willerby distributor, Southern Counties Leisure was the perfect partner to help Priory Hill and Nutts Farm with this promotional event. Southern Counties Leisure provided a Willerby Gainsborough model to host a media preview day, which saw leading outlets and content creators filming and interviewing the Dyers inside the holiday home. The holiday home was located in Hyde Park, one of the royal parks and just a stone’s throw from some of London’s top landmarks, including Marble Arch and Kensington Palace. Acknowledged as the longest-established caravan manufacturer, Willerby is celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2026, with the landmark year underlining its status as a pioneer of the holiday homes industry. Willerby CEO Peter Munk said: “Southern Counties Leisure are one of our leading distributors, so we’re delighted to have been able to support them as part of this opportunity. “Everyone at Willerby is excited about The Dyers’ Caravan Park, as the series will play an important part in promoting caravan holidays, especially to younger audiences. “It’s particularly timely to be part of such a great opportunity in 2026, during the year in which Willerby celebrates its 80th anniversary and Southern Counties Leisure marks its 30th. What a fantastic way to celebrate both companies’ major milestones, by helping to generate publicity for a TV series shining a positive light on our industry.” Southern Counties Leisure is one of the UK’s leading distributors of Willerby holiday homes and lodges. The Southern Counties Leisure team are experts on all things Willerby, knowing each model inside and out, and offering in-depth advice and knowledge of the brand to customers. Southern Counties Leisure Managing Director Amanda Keen said: “We’re incredibly proud to fly the Willerby flag and committed to promoting the brand. I always describe Southern Counties Leisure as like a stick of rock, with Willerby running right through our core! “We’re delighted to be part of the opportunity to promote this new TV series, which celebrates great British holidays and showcases the true quality that holiday homes offer and the enjoyment they bring to all the family.” The Dyers’ Caravan Park launches on Sky One and streaming service NOW on Tuesday, February 24. The scheduling means the series will be shown at a time when viewers are considering spring and summer holidays and weekends away, supporting broader awareness around caravan parks as audiences consider how they’d like to spend the warmer months. The Dyers’ Caravan Park is brought to Sky by award-winning independent production company Expectation, whose track record of TV hits includes Clarkson’s Farm. To read more about Danny’s love for caravan parks read his interview here. Find out more about The Dyers’ Caravan Park at www.sky.com/watch/the-dyers-caravan-park
