ATFC is a unique charity that uses the provision of arts therapies to safeguard the mental health and wellbeing of some of the most vulnerable children in the Community. The children we support have a range of experiences, including domestic abuse, anxiety, poor mental health, emotional or behavioural issues. We work with such children in a safe school environment alongside their teachers, SEN (Special Educational Needs) department, and parents/guardians.
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Total raised so far £21,608
+ est. £2423.50
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0A Call for Support in the Aftermath - More Referrals, More Healing
At Arts Therapies for Children (ATFC), we firmly believe that a child's journey toward healing is most effective within the nurturing walls of their school. This secure environment provides a unique space for children to express themselves without the weight of daily fatigue, fostering an ideal atmosphere for the transformative power of art therapy. It also affords our dedicated therapists the privilege of observing children in their natural settings, gaining profound insights crucial for personalised intervention plans.
In 2023, ATFC achieved significant growth, extending our support to over 180 children in 35 schools across Greater London, Inner London, and Manchester. Despite our accomplishments, the demand for our services surpasses our current capacity. While proud of our impact, we recognise the urgency to sustain therapy for those in our care and address the increasing waiting list.
The aftermath of the war in Israel has added a new layer of challenges. ATFC has responded by providing emergency therapy to six children who recently arrived from Israel, grappling with the profound impact of their experiences. Simultaneously, the heightened anxiety stemming from the conflict has led to a surge in therapy requests. Enhanced security measures in schools, coupled with pervasive community worry, have exacerbated mental health struggles among our children, resulting in a weekly influx of referrals due to anxiety.
The urgency of the situation has taken a toll on our charity's financial standing. Many generous supporters, who have stood by us in the past, find themselves unable to contribute now. Sadly, without additional funding, we face the daunting prospect of scaling back therapy provision starting from the next academic year.
We implore you, our community, to unite with ATFC during this challenging time. Your support will not only sustain therapy for those already in need but will also help us meet the escalating demand from children on our waiting list. Together, we can ensure that more children discover solace, healing, and hope through the profound impact of art therapy.
Stand with us in the aftermath - because more referrals mean more healing, and every child deserves the opportunity to thrive.
