Growing Strong Campaign

Jim Dobbin MP showed his support for leading children’s charity, NCH, at their Parliamentary Reception on Tuesday, 11 March. The NCH Parliamentary reception, sponsored by the Right Honourable Hilary Armstrong MP, was an opportunity for politicians to learn more about the charity and its ‘Growing Strong’ campaign to improve the emotional wellbeing of the UK’s children.

The reception was attended by politicians from all parties, along with a variety of celebrities including, The Apprentice’s Michelle Dewberry and ‘Dr Who’ actor Peter Davidson. Youngsters supported by NCH’s Pinnacle project in London and Dudley Young Carers, that both work to build confidence and wellbeing, told the crowd about the difference the projects make to their lives.

Mr Dobbin says: “NCH’s Growing Strong Campaign sends all of us a strong message; we have to bolster the emotional wellbeing of children today if they are to get the chances in life they deserve tomorrow. It’s been interesting finding out about the work that NCH is doing on the ground to achieve just this. It is imperative that we all now follow their lead.”

Clare Tickell, NCH Chief Executive, says: “We’re grateful to Jim Dobbin MP for showing his support of NCH’s Growing Strong campaign. It’s an acknowledgement that he recognises and shares our opinion that emotional wellbeing is the bedrock of children’s youth and happiness. It helps to give youngsters the future they deserve.”

Sharon Hanson, Project Worker at NCH’s Pinnacle project, says: “The reception has been a great opportunity for us to talk to MP’s about our work with young people. It is important they know how children feel, as they are the ones who are in a position to make a difference.”

Date article online: 26/03/2008