Action for Children is an organisation which aims to support vulnerable children, in the UK, from the ages of six to thirteen.
The group was founded in 1869 as the National Children’s Home. The formation of the group was initiated by a Methodist minister, Thomas Stevenson, who wanted to help homeless children on the streets of London. Stevenson set up a Children’s Home in a disused stable with help from two of his Methodist friends: Alfred Mager and Frances Homer.
The organisation has since changed its name to Action for Children as this better describes the way in which they help families and children affected by disability, abuse, poverty or neglect, and who need that added extra support.
Action for Children works closely under Methodist principles and many of its supporters and volunteers are members of the Methodist Church.
Action for Children runs support centres across the UK which enable families to contact them to gain the help they need. Members at the centres offer advice to parents who are struggling to finance their families or have challenging children and need help managing their upbringing. Help is also available for families affected by divorce, learning difficulties, debt and housing problems, sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Action for Children is a registered adoption agency and also runs a foster care service. Foster care is available to some children suffering behavioural problems and with their experienced carers can sometimes be used as an alternative to a custodial sentence.
Action for Children also works with the families of disabled children offering residential and respite care; which can be absolutely crucial in maintaining the stability of the family unit during stressful periods. They can also help with access to educational programs and specialist leisure facilities.
Action for Children needs your help to raise funds to ensure that their invaluable services can continue to support and grow to meet the ever-changing needs of mid-aged children in our society. As the challenges of raising a happy family are always increasing, so are the number of people who need the help of Action for Children.
Charity Shop
Unit 3
Frodsham Square
Chester
CH1 3JS01244 401 250
Lache Family Centre
125 Cliveden Road
Chester
CH4 8DT01244 674 494