Children First

Seven years ago, Catherine made a decision that would help protect Scotland’s children.

She chose to leave a gift in her Will to Children First.

Catherine did not live to see the full reach of her generosity. But her legacy lives on in every child who has found safety, support and hope because of gifts like hers.

A gift in your Will is a deeply personal decision. It’s not just a future donation. It is a promise to protect childhood, to stand alongside families and to help build a brighter future for children across Scotland.

If you would like to leave a lasting legacy for Scotland's children, we're here to help.

Give the gift of childhood. Their future can be your legacy.

https://www.childrenfirst.org.uk/get-involved/gifts-in-wills

We recently celebrated something truly special at our Selkirk office – 70 years of fundraising by the Selkirk Action Group for Children First.

The group has brought the Selkirk community together through raffles, events, a thrift shop and countless other fundraising activities, raising a fantastic £73,200 to help children, young people and families.

As the group brings its fundraising journey to a close, we wanted to take the opportunity to celebrate everything they have achieved and say a heartfelt thank you.

We also remembered their dear friend, fellow volunteer and former RSSPCC Inspector Bill Dunbar, whose commitment to Children First was such an important part of the group's story.

To everyone who has been part of the Selkirk Action Group over the years – and everyone who supported their fundraising – thank you for an incredible 70 years. Your generosity has helped create safer, brighter futures for children across Scotland.

Read more: https://ow.ly/SaAt50ZG2r8

Like many people around the world, at Children First we were very sad to hear that the incredible Dolly Parton has passed away.

We were privileged and proud to partner with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library for five years, helping children across Scotland discover the joy of books, stories and reading together.

Through the partnership, more than 36,000 free books were shared with children under the age of five, creating special moments for families and inspiring a love of reading.

Dolly believed every child deserved the opportunity to dream, learn and thrive through books. It's a belief we wholeheartedly share.

Thank you, Dolly, for your incredible legacy and for always putting children first.

Worried about rising energy bills?

As the seasons change and colder weather approaches, we know many families may be concerned about how they’ll manage their household finances and keep their homes warm.

With the energy price cap increasing, these worries may feel even more difficult as we head into the colder months.

If you’re struggling with energy costs, worried about keeping your home warm or simply unsure where to turn, please get in touch with our support line.

Call us on 08000 28 22 33 or start a webchat at childrenfirst.org.uk/supportline.

Our team can listen, talk through your situation and help you find the support that’s right for you.

Whatever you’re worried about, you don’t have to face it alone. We’re here for you.

One month to go until the Edinburgh Kiltwalk.

Join our team of Children First fundraising champions on 13 September and take on the Kiltwalk with friends, family or colleagues. Every mile you walk and every penny you raise will help us stand up for children, keep them safe and support families when they need us most.

It’s a great challenge, a brilliant day out and a chance to make a real difference.

Sign up today: https://ow.ly/2CnH50ZBPJ3

Could you be the person who helps a family take the first step towards a brighter future? When families need someone to listen, our support line volunteers are there.

By offering compassionate support and guidance, you'll help families navigate challenges, strengthen relationships and ensure children have the safe and happy childhood they deserve.

Find out more and apply: https://ow.ly/LK7v50ZALXz

A huge thank you to Gill and Maddie from Ooni who delivered a fantastic pizza masterclass for our Moving On Together (MOT) Wednesday Wellbeing group in Midlothian this week.

MOT Wellbeing offers a welcoming space for parents and carers to connect with others and take part in a range of wellbeing activities.

This week, we got hands-on in the kitchen and learned how to make delicious, homemade pizzas from scratch. Hand-stretching the dough may have been harder than it looked but we can happily report that every pizza tasted absolutely delicious!

Find out more about MOT Wellbeing Wednesdays and other support in Midlothian here: https://ow.ly/fvUQ50ZBQyi

After facing trouble at home, mum Laura contacted Children First for support for herself and son Sean*. Reflecting on her experience, she said:

"I have found the support to be extremely helpful and honestly a lifeline during a very difficult time. For the first time in many years of seeking help, I felt truly listened to and supported."

Our free support line is here for anyone who cares for a child in Scotland. Whatever you are worried about, our friendly team offers emotional, practical and financial help. Call 08000 28 22 33 or start a webchat at https://ow.ly/pe4950ZALBm.

Read Laura's story here: https://ow.ly/hTHo50ZALBl

*Names have been changed to protect the anonymity of the family.

Do you enjoy meeting new people, building relationships and getting out and about in your local community?

We're looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers who can give around 6 hours a month to help grow support for Children First across Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian. With no fixed shifts or set days, you can fit volunteering around your existing commitments.

As a Community Fundraising Volunteer, you'll help local businesses support our work through collection cans and community fundraising. Every conversation you have, every collection can you place and every donation you collect helps children and families get the support they need to stay safe, recover from trauma and build brighter futures.

Find out more and apply here: https://ow.ly/G6bA50ZALQF