Three Nines Children's Charity is off to a great start as the chosen cause of British APCO for 2026-27.
Planning is well underway for the charity's presence at the Spring event in Coventry and Board members have already had a preview of the charity's new initiative - creation of 'emotional first aid' packs for children at the scene of incidents and emergencies.
Three Nines is inviting BAPCO and its members to help them refine the concept and develop the pack contents for use by first responders. The age-appropriate kits are designed to reassure and comfort children and young people at the scene of incidents and emergencies.
The packs will also act as an early referral pathway to access the range of services offered by Three Nines.
Chief executive Anne Campbell Gunn said the packs were the result of research and surveys carried out with first responders last year.
"We've listened carefully to what first responders from across the blue light services told us and have secured a sponsor which produces brand-leading social and emotional learning items - toys that help children understand feelings. They are providing some of the 'distraction' items in the packs.
"We're excited by the possibilities of this project. We're looking forward to progressing the thinking with the emergency services - they are often the earliest opportunity to help children access services when they need them the most.
Three Nines offers a range of emotional, well-being and practical services to support children affected by trauma and hardship, helping them to heal and find resilience."
In its first year, the charity delivered over 300 services to children and families across the country including Yorkshire, Northumberland, West Midlands, South Wales, Avon & Somerset, East Anglia and London.
Services include family respite breaks, delivered in conjunction with partner charity, The Principle Trust Children's Charity, 350 Key Stage 3 books from The Give Box, family group tickets for a professional pantomime as well as basic necessities for children living in hardship. They also benefited from Christmas gifts of choice bought by the public from our online shop (Christmas Wish Box) when they would not otherwise have had a main gift to open on Christmas Day.
"It's been an extraordinary but busy year of delivery and we are extremely grateful for all those who have donated to Three Nines. We look forward to building on this foundation and, with BAPCO's support, grow our ability to help many more children who most need support to heal and thrive,
We look forward to sharing with British APCO their stories of resilience, strength and hope," said Anne.
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