About
CHICKS is a national children's charity providing free, week-long respite breaks to disadvantaged children from all over the UK. Established in 1992, CHICKS has provided a much-needed break to nearly 15,000 children aged 8-15.
The children we support come from a variety of backgrounds. Many are living in poverty or are young carers for parents or siblings, whilst others are victims of bullying, abuse or have been bereaved. Others are looked-after children living in local authority care. The one thing they all have in common is that they desperately need a break away from home.
When they come to stay at one of CHICKS’ three retreats in Devon, Cornwall or Derbyshire, the children get to enjoy new experiences and challenge themselves. They try out new activities such as horse-riding or rock climbing, as well as simply enjoying time in beautiful natural environments. And it doesn’t end there. Each child receives a Memory Bag to take home, containing precious mementoes and photos from the week. CHICKS also sends every child a birthday card and Christmas presents, to ensure they feel valued.
For the children, their break imparts new confidence, nurtures self-esteem, makes happy childhood memories and sparks new enthusiasm for life.
