UK’s first children’s charity
Coram is the first and longest serving children’s charity in the UK. Established as the Foundling Hospital in 1739, today it is a vibrant charity group of specialist organisations, working tirelessly to create better chances for hundreds of thousands of children and young people each year.
Coram children’s charity champions young people’s rights and wellbeing, making lives better through legal support, advocacy, adoption, and a range of therapeutic, educational and cultural programmes.
Coram also uses its insight and experience to engage with government, local authorities, social workers, teachers, carers and families – all those in a position to make a difference – to help deliver better practice, systems, and laws.
All of Coram’s work delivers across seven key outcomes for children and young people: a fair chance, a loving home, a voice that’s heard, a chance to shine, skills for the future, no matter where and a society that cares.
The future for children
The pandemic has left a generational impact in its wake, exacerbating existing trends, which were already seeing the lives of too many children and young people blighted by trauma, poverty and neglect.
As we continue to get to grips with the learning loss resulting from extended school closures, the cost-of-living crisis is now placing even greater strain on families. All this is taking place against the backdrop of a digital world that is bringing new opportunities but also new risks to children’s safety, learning and identity.
Children currently represent the smallest proportion of the population since records began and by the end of this decade, there will be fewer children than pensioners in the UK. They need to be heard and placed at the forefront of social policy of the future.
Over the years, Coram has evolved to ensure that it remains relevant and meets the needs of children and young people.
To achieve its mission of better chances for the next generation, Coram is creating the Coram Institute, the only think tank in the country dedicated to the future of children. Building on Coram’s current work, alongside partners from the private, public and voluntary sectors, the Coram Institute will use insight and innovation to meet the changing needs of children and young people now and in the future.
Through its work today, Coram children’s charity strives to build a society that cares for the next generation.
Get involved
Coram relies on the generous support of individuals to deliver its mission of better chances for children. There are many ways to get involved and help to make the lives of children and young people better.
There are opportunities for volunteers to get involved as a Coram Beanstalk reading helper, giving children support with their reading, or as an independent visitor with Coram Voice, befriending a young person in care. Donations are always welcome, and supporters can also help by taking part in challenge events and other fundraising initiatives.
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