Featured programmes

Welcome to Featured programmes which highlights the work of our programmes and shows how they make a difference to children's lives. This month we are highlighting the work of The Children's Society in Kent (formerly Thanet Children's Participation Project) that supports disabled children and provides an intergenerational service.

The Children's Society in Kent

The Children's Society in Kent has been working hard to bridge the gap between young people and older people in the community in which it operates. Through intergenerational service has been very successful in breaking down the generational barriers and help young people felt that they can make a difference to their community.

The programme supports 300 young people each year put also works with 40 organisations which has helped it to bolster the support they’re able to provide to children and young people.

Helping young people to play a positive role in their community

Programme Manager Ann Raymont says: 'The young people we support are playing a positive role in their community helping to change people’s attitudes and perceptions towards them and creating happier more cohesive communities.'

Jas, 18, who's supported by Thanet, says: 'I am proud to be part of a programme that breaks the norm and takes away those boundaries between young and old. Perhaps most interestingly is that I've seen other young people’s perceptions change, their attitudes are more positive in that a mutual respect and understanding is emerging.'

Youth Achievement Award

Thanet also support young people ages 11-18 to complete a Youth Achievement Award. These nationally recognised awards are designed to help develop more effective participative practice among young people. They also encourage young people to progressively take more responsibility in their learning by selecting, planning and leading activities that are based on their and their community’s interests.

Phil, a 16-year-old award winner says working towards the award had given him the 'life skills and a chance to get something on my CV for the future.'

'I have also had the chance to give something back to my community by arranging activities for other disadvantaged young people and campaigning about local issues,' he adds. 'The awards are fun and the workers really listen to me and help me.'

How you can help

You can also help programmes like Hand in Hand continue their work in supporting vulnerable children by making a donation now.