Southport children enjoy a summer holiday thanks to Community Link Foundation

Community Link Foundation has recently supported Sefton Children’s Trust with a grant of £2,500, helping to fund a life-changing summer holiday for 12 children from Southport.

For more than 40 years, Sefton Children’s Trust has provided vital opportunities for young people from families experiencing difficulties or as a positive reward for children who have overcome a difficulty. Their annual residential trip to Manor Adventure in Shropshire, which took place in July, offers children a much-needed chance to escape everyday challenges, build resilience, develop confidence, and simply enjoy being children.

This summer’s trip was no exception. As children prepare to return to school, the group of young people who joined the residential will do so with renewed confidence, new friendships, and plenty of exciting stories to tell from their week away.

Speaking about the impact of the grant, a spokesperson from Sefton Children’s Trust said: “The grant provided simply allows us to do what we do best and provide families across Sefton with an opportunity to build their confidence and experience a week away from difficulties they may be experiencing.”

The difference the Trust makes is clear in the words of one parent who has benefitted from their support:

“When I lost my wife, I did not know how I was going to manage, I have four children and two of them have ADHD. Thanks to Sefton Children’s Trust, I have been able to manage throughout the school holidays without any help from social services. With their support, my daughter now has the confidence to sing in her school choir.”

Community Link Foundation Chairman, Enda Rylands, added:

“The work Sefton Children’s Trust does is life-changing for children and families who need it most. We are delighted to play a small part in supporting their annual residential and year-round activities, which give young people confidence, hope and experiences that stay with them for life.”

The charity’s work extends far beyond the summer. Sefton Children’s Trust aims to provide long-term support to families over a three-year period, giving children respite and opportunities to develop in a positive environment. Their programmes are designed to promote respectful behaviour, build relationships with positive role models, and advance personal and social development through educational and recreational activities.

Alongside the residential, the Trust also organises an annual family event where achievements are celebrated with a film presentation of the holiday, followed by a cinema trip and a shared meal. At Christmas, each family is supported with a food hamper, and every child receives a personal gift to ensure no one is left out during the festive season.

At Community Link Foundation, we are proud to provide funding to projects like this that make a real difference in our community. You can help us continue to support more families by making a donation through our website or by signing up to our monthly lottery for just £5 a month.