2020 - a year that will go down in history for so many reasons.

Unprecedented times have called for unprecedented responses and with every day we have all had new practical challenges, and the delivery of mental health services has been one of them. Yet, I am proud to say that we have not shut down for one minute, the crisis forced many changes and we adapted by shifting our services online and continuing to offer seamless help.

Our role throughout has been on the frontline - helping individuals to adapt and cope with COVID-19. Sadly, the heartbreaking truth is that cases of childhood trauma this year have more than doubled with children and young people being triggered by the impact of the pandemic.  

Thanks to our brilliant supporters, volunteers and specialist team, we have played a huge role in protecting children, young people and families, making sure they’re safe and that they have the best support they can for their wellbeing. In fact, we have supported over 1,200 children and families since 30th March 2020.

Childhood trauma is an important topic and I think that COVID-19 has reminded us of what vital services organisations like Kids Inspire provide. Whether that support comes via; Therapy, Mentoring, Coaching, Community projects, the Christmas Appeal or Lunch Club, they all go a long way to empowering children, young people and their families, and to easing the impact of childhood trauma and anxiety.

It’s the people that make Kids Inspire something special. Whatever role you might have played this year, you have all shown how wonderful you are during these trying times and I am truly grateful to each and everyone of you.  Congratulations on an incredible achievement.

Thank you for your ongoing support.  Wishing you all a happy, healthy, peaceful 2021 and I look forward to seeing you all.

Sue Bell

PS. I look forward to telling you more in the New Year about Inspire Wellbeing Services and how all their profits go back into supporting children’s mental health, please watch this space.