Become a New Year resolutionary for children's charity
A leading children’s charity is asking people to “join the resolution” and make a lasting difference to the lives of Scotland’s vulnerable children, young people and families.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and celebrities including James Cosmo, Elaine C Smith and Clare Grogan have all made New Year’s resolutions to help a child as part of the Children 1st campaign.
Alison Todd, the charity's chief executive, said: “There are too many children in Scotland who are suffering abuse and violence and for whom there is nothing to look forward to in the new year.
“We need to send these children a strong message of hope that the people of Scotland are ready to put them first. We want people to make a new year’s resolution to take action and help a child in 2015.”
My resolution is to do everything I can to make sure Scotland is the best place in the world for young people to grow up - Nicola Sturgeon
Among the first to make a commitment was the First Minister, who said: “My resolution is to do everything I can to make sure Scotland is the best place in the world for young people to grow up.”
Elaine C Smith took a break from panto to pledge: “I will ensure to tell at least five people about the wonderful work done by Children 1st.”
Altered Images singer Clare Grogan said: “My little girl is always saying to me: 'Mum you’re not listening to me'. So, I promise I’m going to become a better listener.”
The campaign was inspired by wishes from children and young people that the charity works with for making Scotland a better place to live.
The wishes, collected to mark Children 1st’s 130th anniversary, revealed that many children wanted simple things others take for granted, such as a happy and loving home, enough food, and to be free from the fear of violence.
Chelsea Jackson (18) was five when she came to Children 1st for support. She said: “All wanted was a mum that loved me, a permanent home and for the abuse to stop.
“I was given the chance to talk about how I felt and about what had happened. Children 1st helped me get over the trauma of what happened.
“I hope people donate, or volunteer or just even understand a bit better how sexual abuse affects people, and how everyone can do something to help.”
The charity hopes people will consider becoming a Children 1st volunteer, fundraiser or donor as well as thinking about how they can keep children safe or improve relationships with the children in their lives.
“Your resolution can be big or small – whatever you decide, we’ll help you keep it,” added Alison Todd. “Come join us and send the message that children are not alone, that you care, that you’ll help.”
To view the celebrity videos or take part visit: www.jointheresolution.org.uk. To donate £3 text JRES15 £3 to 70070.
