Action For Children

Action For Children supports the most vulnerable and neglected children and young people throughout the UK and has been doing so for 145 years.

We’re a children’s charity who:

  • work directly with over 300,000 children, young people, parents and carers
  • run 650 services across the UK
  • tackle issues such as child neglect and abuse

Our History

Shocked by the plight of homeless children on the streets of London in 1869, young Methodist minister Thomas Bowman Stephenson decided to take action. With the help of two Methodist friends, Alfred Mager and Francis Horner, he converted a disused stable block into The Children’s Home.

Fred +&Georgescreengrab

Stephenson’s vision was of a family-style system of childcare which would be disciplined but loving – unlike the hated workhouses. Professional from the start, Stephenson’s recognition of the importance of professional training was a significant contribution to the development of childcare in the UK.

Over time, our work has shifted away from children’s homes towards community-based projects like children’s centres and intensive family support services to support vulnerable families and try to prevent potential problems. Previously known as the National Children’s Home and as NCH, we have always been active in promoting the issues that young people and children face to policy and decision makers.

Some things don’t change

Today, as Action for Children, we continue to support and speak out for children, young people and parents in tough circumstances. We are still guided by Stephenson’s legacy, but face the challenges of a very different society.

FESTIVALS: 2015
FESTIVAL ORGANISED BY