Childrens Chance was set up in 1998 to give all children, regardless of financial background, the ordinary chances that are so often taken for granted, such as swimming, music, tennis, dance or horse riding lessons. Nearly all the children come from families supported by welfare benefits - people who have been made redundant, those who are ill, others who are disabled, some whose partner has left the family home, and others who simply live on a very low income. Families in these circumstances may hardly be able to pay the bills or provide food, let alone a music or karate lesson, but our philosophy is that no child is responsible for his or her financial welfare, and that every child is equal and entitled to basic opportunity. We fund over 40 different activities – piano, gymnastics, football workshops, singing lessons and so on, in over 60 towns and villages. Some children are talented, and we help them develop their talent, others just enjoy their activity, and for others we help provide an escape from social exclusion. It doesn’t matter how good the children are, at least they have had the chance…

Anything recreational, cultural or educational:

DO YOU PURCHASE EQUIPMENT?

No, but we may be able to help find suppliers of essential equipment, such as musical instruments, on loan.

IS EVERY CHILD IN THE SALISBURY REGION ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

Yes, every child that attends school or lives within a thirty-mile radius of Salisbury Cathedral. This includes parts of Wiltshire, Hampshire and Dorset.

Children do not have to show special talent - just enthusiasm!

HOW DO CHILDREN QUALIFY?

There are no qualifying criteria (such as means testing) but evidence of the welfare benefits received by parents or guardians may be required, and the application should be supported by one of the following: Headteacher, Social worker, Health visitor, Priest or GP.

Applications can be made by completing and submitting our application form. A separate letter of application is not required but you may include one if you wish. In all cases applicants are advised to read the Rules first. Copies of the application form can be printed from here or by calling 01722 415991 and leaving your name, address and postcode. As we are a voluntary body we do not have formal office hours and you will need to leave an answerphone message - please speak slowly and clearly and we will respond as soon as we can. You do not have to call us first before applying, just send in the completed form and a response will be issued within two weeks.

HOW MUCH FUNDING CAN I APPLY FOR, AND CAN I APPLY AGAIN?

Awards are usually given for one term or for short periods such as 6-8 weeks. In most cases we give a proportion of the amount requested so that parents or guardians are required to make a contribution. We will consider repeat applications and will fund children on an on-going basis but receipt of one award does not automatically mean funding of another.

HOW MUCH OF THE MONEY RAISED ACTUALLY GOES TO THE CHILDREN?

Nearly all of it! The charity is staffed entirely by volunteers.

WHAT WILL BE ACHIEVED BY GIVING A CHILD A CHANCE?

It may make a child happy. Perhaps a child in a home or in foster care will have a chance to fulfil a simple dream, such as to ride a horse or go to the theatre. For others it may be the opportunity to nurture a real talent or it may help prevent social exclusion for young people with behavioural difficulties.

Our aim is to make the Salisbury region a place where every child can at least have a chance.

4 VICTORIA ROAD SALISBURY SP1 3NG   TEL 01722 415991   www.childrenschance.co.uk