Families First- St Andrews

Families First- St Andrews support children in and around the North East Fife area. Operating since 2001, they work with children and young people who have faced adverse childhood experiences, ranging from physical and mental health issues, neurodiversity conditions, and poverty.

A quote from Families First themselves explains what it is they do as a charity: "Our objectives are to strengthen the social and emotional wellbeing of children/young people. We provide opportunities for them to explore the challenges they face, meet new people, and gain new experiences in a safe environment with supportive staff and volunteers. These opportunities help to improve social connections, personal development and wellbeing.".

We were able to support Families First with funding to help cover the cost of a school holiday trip, including food and transport. Due to their circumstances, costs such as food and transport would otherwise have prevented the children from being able to attend these activities, contributing to their isolation.

The kids enjoyed a fun trip to Bowbridge Alpaca farm, which we were also lucky enough to go along and visit. We saw the positive effect this had on the young people present, who were able to enjoy themselves, open up and develop their confidence, which was evident in their change of demeanour from the beginning to the end of the day.

It's so rewarding to be able to physically see how much of a difference our support can make, and we're very happy to have been able to support Families First with their trip!