Donations to the charity have allowed it to provide fun days out for 900 vulnerable children this summer

Almost 1000 vulnerable children from Glasgow have been treated to summer days of fun thanks to over £20,000 raised by a special Quarriers' appeal.

Kids and their families supported by services provided by the West of Scotland social care organisation enjoyed the treat thanks to donations to Quarriers’ 2016 Summer Appeal.

These outings help in building confidence when trying out new activities, making new friends and a lasting support network - Alice Harper

The outings organised by the charity were created a jam-packed summer of activities across Scotland from a trip to Pollok Park to a cycling and boat tripping around Loch Lomond, visits to the Heads of Ayr and Mabie Farm Park in Dumfries and Galloway, cinema trips and a visit to a water centre for specialised speed boating and kayaking. Thanks to Quarriers and the donations pledged from individuals, almost 900 vulnerable children across Scotland have been given the chance to make happy summer memories.

Quarriers’ 2016 summer appeal was launched in May with the aim of giving as many children as possible positive experiences and memories to last a lifetime, and has so far, it has raised nearly £22,000.

Those who have benefitted from the campaign have included young carers, children living in poverty, young people who require residential support, and young people with disabilities. A number of other Quarriers’ services across Scotland are also enjoying the Appeal this summer including those in East Dunbartonshire, Renfrewshire, Inverclyde, Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Falkirk, and Moray.

Alice Harper, Quarriers chief executive, said: “Every year, both the children, parents and staff at Quarriers look forward to these amazing summer outings. Each trip is a brilliant day guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.

“Summer holidays can bring an extra financial burden for families. No school breakfast clubs or hot school lunches put extra pressure on already stretched budgets. Without the generous contributions made, many children and families supported by Quarriers just wouldn’t have the opportunity to create these lifelong memories. These are kids who don't get everything and for some it may be their first time in countryside seeing real sheep and cows.

“These outings help in building confidence when trying out new activities, making new friends and a lasting support network. Crucially, the children go back to school with great stories to share with their teacher and school friends along with memories they can treasure forever.

“Being able to give nearly 900 children and their families a day to remember is a real achievement. We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated and made this possible, we couldn’t have done this without you and your generous contributions.”

As well as days out, Quarriers offers young people long-term guidance and support, helping to transform their lives. The charity provides mentoring and life coaching, support groups, activities, and befriending services. This helps children to build their confidence, keep up their education, and make friends who understand what they are going through, helping them reach their true potential.