New programme funded by the East Lancashire Freemasons

Thirty children in care from across Manchester will receive long-term consistent help and support, thanks to a major grant for the new programme from East Lancashire Freemasons to GMYN.

This new two year programme will offer a weekly group activity for children in care aged 10-16 to socialise, improve health and wellbeing, build confidence, and develop key skills for the future.

In Manchester one in three children live in poverty, with children being 55% more likely to be in care than the national average.

The grant from East Lancashire Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales.

Paul O’Carroll from East Lancashire Freemasons, said: “I’m very pleased we’ve been able to help GMYN with their programme for children in care across Manchester. Many of these young people enter care due to traumatic experiences and then experience instability within the care system being moved from placement to placement. This hugely important programme offers the consistency the children need to build self-confidence and essential skills.”