North-east children’s charity Befriend a Child today launched an urgent fundraising appeal that aims to keep local youngsters smiling.
The charity hopes to raise at least £100,000 over the summer months to help safeguard delivery of its renowned 1:1 befriending service for school-aged children in need.
The charity, whose motto is ‘turn a frown upside down’, is renowned for spreading smiles across the region whilst providing children from disadvantaged backgrounds with an escape from troubles at home. Since 1975 thousands of local children have benefitted from the support (provided by trained volunteers).
The appeal is a first for the charity, that traditionally fundraises through events, community groups, individual supporters, grant making trusts and corporate partners. However, while the charity continues to enjoy a loyal supporter base, the city’s economic downturn has taken its toll.
Despite its best efforts, the last year has been particularly challenging and the charity has struggled to secure the funds needed. This combined with a loss of vital local authority funding has led to a critical shortfall that puts the befriending service at risk. Sadly, if new funds are not secured soon, the charity may have to cut back which would be devastating for the children, families and volunteers involved.
Jackie Hothersall, CEO said, “After all the hard work we’ve put in, it is disappointing to be in this position. Sadly, it reflects the times we live in. Despite the generosity of our supporters, raising funds is more difficult than it was a few years ago.
“Over the last 12 months we have noticed a decline in our fundraising income. This is likely due to a combination of factors: a reduction in and redistribution of local authority funding; increased competition for voluntary funds; a general tightening-of-the-belt approach across the region; and, a trend towards more pro bono and in-kind donations from companies.
“Nonetheless, we are here to support local children who need our help. We believe charity begins at home and experience has taught us that people from the North-east are extremely generous. That’s why we are appealing for their support to save our smiles.”
The struggle to raise funds happens at a time when demand for befriending is on the rise. Between 2012 and 2015, the number of children referred and befriended increased by 53% to 323. The charity was forced to put a cap on new referrals and currently they support 179 children with a further 22 on the waiting list until new funds can be secured.
Taking a lead from its oil industry neighbours, the charity has already cut costs and improved efficiencies. But the £100,000 funding shortfall needs to be plugged to safeguard the service.
Richard Stewart, Head of Marketing, Fundraising and External Affairs added, “For over 40 years Befriend a Child has been a force for good in the North-east. We provide a vital and unique service to local children and offer a valuable opportunity for volunteers to get involved and make a difference in the community.
“It troubles me to think there are many children in Aberdeen suffering abuse and neglect and living in deprivation. While we can’t change the past for these children, we can give them a better future which is why I urge people to support our appeal – even a small donation can help save a smile.”
Anyone wishing to support the appeal can donate £5 by Texting SMILE to 70660. Local companies, community groups and schools are being asked to consider sponsoring a smile to help safeguard the service.
Supporters are also being encouraged to organise fundraising events or choose Befriend a Child as partner for any events in the pipeline. Donations of unwanted clothes, shoes, accessories, etc. are also welcome at the charity’s shop at 27 Holburn Street, Aberdeen.
Supporters of the appeal will be invited to add their share a selfie at #smilesaver to help the charity create a smile-gallery as a tribute to the work of the charity, and to download an ‘I’m a smile-saver’ window-poster to show they have joined in.
Befriend a Child also deliver two mentoring services to children; intandem, funded by the Scottish Government and MCR Pathways funded by several grant-making partners. Funding for these services is restricted and they are not at risk.
For more information about the charity and the appeal go to www.befriendachild.org.uk