Who we are

Our Aim

We believe that all children should have an equal opportunity to reach their potential, regardless of their circumstances. 

All our programmes are child-focused and respond specifically to the individual need of each child or organisation.

Whom we help and how

We provide practical, tangible help that makes an immediate difference to children, young people, parents, siblings and teachers. 

All of our grants enable children and young people to develop greater independence, support their physical or social development or help to ensure that their care needs are better met. In doing so, we also contribute to improving a child’s wellbeing and improving their self-esteem.

As many as 69% of parents of disabled children report that their child doesn’t receive the support they need. We exist to change that.

The international world of Variety

We are part of Variety International, a global charity with three core initiatives: Freedom, Future and Caring. These themes are reflected in our UK programmes.

How we’re organised

There is a board of trustees responsible for the direction and governance of the charity. Trustees are recruited from the membership of Variety, the Children’s Charity. Members are known as Barkers.

There are currently 392 Barkers under the leadership of the Chief Barker.

Chief Barker is elected annually, usually for a period of one year.

The charity’s services are delivered by a combination of committees, staff members and volunteers.  Fundraising is similarly structured.

We have many celebrity supporters. Not surprising for a charity whose roots are so firmly in the entertainment industry!

Charity no 209259 (England & Wales)
Charity no SCO38505 (Scotland)