About us
The Catholic Children’s Society (CCS) supports disadvantaged children and families across London, Hertfordshire and the South East.
Founded in 1859, CCS is one of the oldest children’s charities in the UK. Our work is inspired by Christian values derived from the Gospels and the teaching of the Catholic Church.

Our Vision, Mission & Values
Vision: Our vision is a world where every child and family facing disadvantage get the support they need to achieve their potential, creating a better society for all.
Mission: Our mission is to bring hope and positive change to children and families. Through complementary and creative early intervention services we seek to build resilience and improve children’s life chances. We work with families of all faiths and none and in partnership with diverse communities.
Values: Our work is informed by Catholic Social Teaching and the core values of integrity, compassion, inclusion and partnership. By being true to these values we promote the common good, helping disadvantaged families to participate fully in society and achieve their potential.

Emergency support for families in crisis
We operate a Crisis Fund which provides immediate financial support for families facing a crisis in their lives. Parish Priests and Headteachers can apply to this fund on behalf of a family and we will respond within 24 hours. This support can make a huge difference to families in desperate situations when they have nowhere else to turn. Find out more here

Mental health services for children & young people
Our Connect-Ed counselling and therapy services support the mental health and emotional wellbeing of thousands of children each year. These services are based on-site in over 70 primary, secondary and special schools. This specialist support ensures vulnerable children and young people can develop resilience, achieve their full potential and have better chances in life. We also deliver mental health training for school staff, helping to enhance their ability to identify and support pupils who have mental health needs. Find out more here

Bereavement support for children & young people
We provide training for school staff so they can deliver support groups for children who have experienced a significant loss in their lives. This may be due to the death of a loved one, or family breakdown/separation. This programme helps children cope with their grief and feel less alone. Find out more here

Family support for isolated children & parents/carers
We run St Francis Family Centre in Tower Hamlets and St Mark’s Stay & Play in North Kensington. At these centres we provide educational activities for young children and support their parents/carers with issues such as housing and financial worries. Find out more here

Post Adoption & Aftercare service
Our Post Adoption & Aftercare Team works with adopted adults, adoptive parents and birth families who are seeking help and advice in relation to adoption. We also provide support for adults who were once in our care and/or in one of the children’s homes whose records we hold. Find out more here

How you can get involved
• Support our work by giving a monthly or one-off donation Donate here
• Make a lasting difference to disadvantaged children by leaving a gift in your will Find out more here
• Become a parish advocate or volunteer Find out more here

To speak to someone about our work, please call 020 8969 5305 or email info@cathchild.org.uk