Tots celebrate charity's 145th birthday

Whipton Children's Centre children celebrated leading charity Action for Children’s 145th birthday with a party for families in the area.

The tots and their families gathered at the charity’s Whipton Children's Centre in Exeter to enjoy party food, balloons, music, games and crafts in honour of 145 years of support for vulnerable children and young people.

Her Majesty the Queen, the patron of Action for Children, has sent a special message to the charity as it celebrates its 145th anniversary this month.

The message said: “On the occasion of Action for Children’s 145th anniversary and as your Patron, I send my best wishes to all those involved with the charity during this most special anniversary year. Elizabeth R.”

Whipton Children's Centre works at the heart of the community offering advice and support for a wide range of issues facing families to make their lives easier, healthier and happier.

Action for Children began in 1869 when a young Methodist minister, shocked at the plight of homeless children on the streets of London, set up The Children’s Home. Over time, the charity’s work has shifted towards community-based projects like children’s centres, which are designed to help parents give their children the best possible start in life. Previously known as the National Children’s Home and NCH, Action for Children now runs 650 services across the UK.