Our History
Discover the history of the Children’s Respite Trust, from our beginnings in 2010 through the milestones, challenges and achievements that have shaped the charity we are today.
The Beginning
The Children’s Respite Trust was founded in 2010 on the simple premise that far too many families face unbearable pressures of living with the care needs of a disabled child. The stark reality was that the number of children with disabilities far outweighed the available spaces in respite centres, putting immense stress on these families. Marital strains, academic hurdles for siblings, and greater risk of mental health issues amongst families are all too common.
What began as a campaign to help a few local people soon grew to become a much broader cause. By November 2010, the Trust formally established itself as a company limited by guarantee and in February 2011, the Trust finally achieved charitable status. Governed by a voluntary Board of Trustees, the charity appointed a Chief Executive to develop services. As the wheels of change turned, volunteer Caseworkers joined the ranks, and fundraising endeavours gathered momentum, gradually shifting from advocacy services to the provision of private respite.
Nurturing the Community
By the end of 2012 we had enabled several families to enjoy respite breaks. This was where the family’s child would stay in a privately run respite centre funded by the Trust, while their family got a few days break. In early 2013 the we began commissioning care staff to work directly with families in their own homes and in the community.
Slowly the Trust built up a community-based care team to support families throughout Sussex.
A Place of Understanding
By the close of 2013, the need for a physical space became apparent. A haven where families could gather when home visits weren't suitable, offering case-workers insight into their unique circumstances. Crouch’s Farm, a converted Oast House in East Hoathly, became home base for the next four years.
A Century of Impact
Early in 2017 the Children’s Respite Trust had the proud moment of having helped its 100th family. The ongoing advocacy work, along with placing carers in homes and those early breaks in privately-run respite centres had all added up to 100 children and their families. All of them having had their lives made that little bit easier as a consequence of the Trust’s work.
The conclusion of 2017 brought a monumental step - the Trust found a new home within a spacious building in Uckfield. From this vibrant space, we have been able to host a variety of events for families and ultimately transform it into the welcoming Centre it is today. Lots of time and energy has been invested into the building to ensure it meets the highest standards of care and consideration.
You can read more about our Centre here.
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Reaching for the Stars
While the pandemic may have impeded progress, it did not halt our determination to provide a nurturing environment for children to flourish. After a long period of working hard to meet the requirements, the Trust is incredibly pleased to announce we are Ofsted registered. This means we were able to launch our specialised nursery for children with additional needs called Little Stars. By welcoming in children as young as two years old, we are helping more families in the early years as they come to terms with their child’s diagnosis and the challenges they may face as their little ones grow. Experienced and trained early years educators at the Trust ensure that the Little Stars get the best start to their education and are given every chance to succeed.
Specialised Siblings Support
At the Children’s Respite Trust we look after the whole family and therefore the introduction of a specialised support group for siblings was a highly anticipated next step. The successful campaign of fundraising launched at our Fireworks Masquerade Ball has meant we now have a regular Siblings Group that is run by our designated siblings lead. The children that attend have built incredible bonds and have blossomed in a space where they can truly be themselves. We can’t wait to see how this group grows.
And So the Story Continues...
The journey of the Children’s Respite Trust is one of dedication, transformation, and unwavering commitment. Through the years, it has evolved into a beacon of hope for families and a testament to the impact of community support. We thank those that have been a part of our story so far and as our journey continues strive to build more great relationships that will further our mission. As we grow we remain steadfast in our belief that no family should have to care for a disabled child alone.