Honouring our heritage
Back in 1869, Methodist minister Reverend Dr Thomas Bowman Stephenson found two boys sheltering under the arches of Waterloo Station.
He was shocked by what he saw and decided to dedicate his life to helping vulnerable children.
The two boys were Fred and George. They were the first children helped by Rev Dr. Thomas Bowman Stephenson but he was soon helping more and more.
Fred and George, the first two boys to be taken in by Rev Dr. Stephenson
Our history
Revd Dr Stephenson was a Methodist minister from the North East of England. He was passionate about social justice. So when he moved to London, he challenged the Methodist Church to take action to help children living on the streets.
His work led to the creation of the National Children’s Home (NCH) - the original name of Action for Children.
A lot has changed since 1896. But our ambition – to give children safe and happy childhoods – shines just as bright.
We’ve built more and more services to help vulnerable children across the UK. And in 2008, we became Action for Children.
With our activities and resources, you could help improve the lives of vulnerable children
A group of Old Boys and Girls from Whit Mondays Children's Home in 1903
We’ve been making a difference for the children and families who need us most for over 150 years.
Just last year, we supported 687,755 children, young people, and families across the UK. We did this through 372 services in local communities, schools, and online.
We’ve been a vital lifeline for generations. And together with amazing supporters like you, we can be there for generations to come.
From Scotland to Cornwall, we help children, young people and families in need across the UK
Right now, 4.3 million children live in poverty in the UK. That’s 30% of all children. Children who don’t have the essentials they need for a safe and happy childhood. But with your help, we could reach these children.
With your help, we could reach more children like Miracle
Take a glimpse at some of our earliest children's homes
There are many ways you can help the children, young people, and families we support. Remembering Action for Children in your will is one of them.
Your lasting legacy could write brighter futures for vulnerable children, today and tomorrow.
Your legacy could transform a child's life
Why Elizabeth left a gift in her will
"I have been a supporter of Action for Children for over 50 years. I first started as a girl selling sunny smiles. As a Children’s nurse, I’ve seen the effects of of child abuse, poverty and disability on children and their families and realise the importance of Action for Children’s work. I am happy to leave a legacy in my will to continue helping those who need it the most."
Not sure where to start?
Our free gifts in wills enquiry pack is full of useful information, including our will planner, which gives you a place to store all your thoughts and to note down all your wishes and directions for your estate.
Not written your will yet?
No problem! Head over to our free will writing partners page and get your will written for free in as little as 15 minutes.
Already pledged a gift in your will?
We’d love to hear from you!
Share your reasons for leaving a gift
Throughout June, we're asking you to join us in remembering the kindness of Revd Dr Stephenson and his work. You can do so by following our weekly prayer guides.
Any questions? Please contact the Gifts in Wills team using: [email protected]
You could give children a brighter future
This blog was updated on 18 October with new figures from our 2023/24 annual report.
