Children’s charity launches urgent appeal for funds

Children First Derby, which supports vulnerable children and families has launched a new appeal to raise funds as it faces one of the most serious financial challenges in its history.

The charity, which has been helping children, young people and families for more than 50 years, says rising costs and increasingly complex demand for its services has put a strain on its finances.

It has now launched its 50:50 campaign, calling on people and businesses across Derby and Derbyshire to donate £50 – enough to help fund an hour of vital support for a child or young person.

Children First Derby provides three key services: mentoring for vulnerable young people, support for families experiencing difficulties and supervised family time for children in care.

But demand continues to grow, with increasing numbers of children and young people being referred for support by schools and other organisations.

Chief executive Amanda Solloway said: “Children First Derby has been here for children and families for more than 50 years, but we are currently facing one of the most serious financial challenges in our history.

“We need to raise more than £50,000 if we are to continue providing and enhancing our level of support we do now.

“Demand is increasing, the needs of the children and families coming to us are becoming more complex and, like every organisation, the cost of providing that support has risen significantly.

“We don’t want to turn young people away when they need us, but without additional funding that is the reality we could face.”

Amanda said the 50:50 campaign had been designed to give people a simple and tangible way of helping.

She said: “£50 can help us provide an hour of support and, for a young person who is struggling, that hour can be incredibly important.

“It is time spent with somebody they trust, who will listen to them without judgement and help them work through whatever is happening in their life.

“We know £50 isn’t affordable for everybody, so people can donate whatever they can.

“Equally, we’d love businesses, groups of colleagues or organisations to get involved and perhaps fund several hours between them.

“Every donation will help us continue being there for children and families who need us.”

The campaign has already received a boost from the Cosy Foundation, which has agreed to match-fund the first £2,500 donated.

To support the campaign, click here.