Action for Children

Hidden in plain sight on Great Queen Street lies Action for Children. It’s not a building that screams for attention, but its story echoes through the lives of countless children across the UK. Action for Children began not here, but in a renovated stable in Waterloo in 1869. Methodist minister Thomas Bowman Stephenson, witnessing the plight of London’s street children, founded the first “Children’s Home”. Imagine those first two boys admitted on July 9th, 1869, finding refuge in a former stable. This marked the humble beginnings of what would become a national institution. By 1908, the organization grew into the “National Children’s Home and Orphanage,” reflecting its expanding reach. Action for Children wasn’t always its name. It evolved from the National Children’s Home, a reflection of its shift from primarily running children’s homes to providing a broader range of services. This transformation reflects the organization’s evolving understanding of children’s needs. Instead of institutional care, the focus shifted towards supporting families and keeping children within their communities whenever possible. Today, Action for Children focuses on five key areas: family support, services for disabled children, fostering and adoption programs, support for vulnerable young people, and specialized education for children with disabilities. In 2016, the Duchess of Cambridge became the patron of Action for Children, highlighting its continued relevance and importance. Action for Children’s impact extends far beyond direct services. They conduct research, campaign for policy changes, and advocate for the rights of vulnerable children and families. As you walk down Great Queen Street, remember the quiet power of this organization. Action for Children’s legacy continues, a testament to the enduring belief that every child deserves a safe and happy childhood.