CHICKS

About the charity

Childhood can be one of the most difficult experiences if you are having a tough time at home. At CHICKS we provide 6 days free respite care for disadvantaged children from across the UK, who would not otherwise have a break in that year.

The children we support come from a variety of backgrounds from living in poverty, children that are being neglected or abused, either mentally, physically or sexually, children who have lost parents or even children who are full time young carers.

In 2009 eight hundred children enjoyed a break with CHICKS, but this just isn’t enough and this year we aim to take 1200 children. More than ever before. With no government funding and relying solely on donations this is a big challenge and we need your help!

CHICKS has two centres, one based in Brentor, near Tavistock in Devon. The other is based in Tywardreath, near Par in Cornwall. Both centres take children from across the UK and have a maximum of 16 children at one time; 8 boys and 8 girls, within an 8-11 or 12-15 age range which ensures a friendly and supportive “family” atmosphere.

During their 6 day break children receive as much care, attention and support as possible; enjoying a wealth of experiences from pony trekking and rock climbing, to building sand castles and flying kites, as well as the opportunity to make new and often long lasting friendships. All activities are “challenge by choice”. No child is ever forced to take part.

CHICKS wants the children to learn that fun does not equal having money so much time is spent playing team games, reading books, drawing and doing puzzles. Every child leaves a CHICKS camp with hundreds of happy memories and new skills and the support does not end when a child leaves camp. Every child goes home with a goodie bag full of treats and photos from their break, these photos can sometimes be the only ones the child has and they are truly treasured! Most importantly they leave with a freepost envelope so they can write to the new friends they meet on camp, many children stay in touch for years and this is how we know what a difference a break at CHICKS can make! The children also receive a Birthday and Christmas card and a Christmas present, again this can sometimes be their only gift.

CHICKS has a huge impact on the children we help, can you help us to make a difference?