After a quarter of a century supporting young people in Guernsey, Action for Children said it is only looking to the future now – as it plans to help more young people facing significant challenges.
The charity hosted an afternoon tea party to mark its 25th anniversary in the island earlier this month, with former service users, partners, funders, staff, and supporters gathering to celebrate all they have jointly achieved at St Pierre Park Hotel.
Service Manager Aaron Davies said it showed how much support Action for Children has in the island.
“Our 25th birthday was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the thousands of young people, staff, stakeholders and families have shared as a part of our journey,” he said.
“The stories shared during the event were a powerful reminder of why our work matters and the difference that the right support at the right time can make for a young person who faces having nowhere safe to stay.”
Throughout the afternoon, guests heard reflections on how support for young people in Guernsey has evolved over the past quarter of a century.
This was illustrated through powerful stories highlighting the difference that early intervention, practical support, and positive relationships can make in a young person’s life.
Mr Davies said the event highlighted the importance of listening to young people and creating services that respond to their changing needs.
He said that will continue over the coming years too.
“Whilst we were proud to reflect on the last 25 years, our focus remains firmly on the future,” he added.
“We know young people continue to face significant challenges, and we remain committed to working alongside them to prevent homelessness and to tackle its root causes.”
Action for Children said the Hands Family Foundation and St Pierre Park Hotel were very generous in supporting the event, along with “many other businesses whose generosity made the day possible”.
Invited guests included Deputy Garry Collins who is the States’ lead for homelessness.
He heard and contributed to discussions outlining how the partnership between charities, government, businesses and the wider community helps to strengthen support for vulnerable young people across the island.
“I was delighted to attend and speak at the 25th birthday event on behalf of the States of Guernsey as the homelessness lead on the Committee for Housing.
“Action for Children is fulfilling an important role within our community, especially during this housing crisis.
“Young people who have accessed Action for Children services achieve better outcomes and are better prepared for independent adulthood. Its outstanding that 100% of young people who have completed an Action for Children training flat programme have successfully sustained their tenancy.
“The support teams must be thanked for their outstanding services and dedication to their roles to support these young people.
“Action for Children has been a trusted partner of the States of Guernsey for the past 25 years and I am delighted that we will continue working together into the future to support the next generation of young islanders.”
Andrea Nightingale, the Substance Use Strategy lead for the Health Improvement Commission, also spoke about her involvement with Action for Children and how she has seen its work evolve.
“This celebration holds special significance for me, having had the privilege of working in partnership with Action for Children for more than 20 years,” she explained.
“Throughout that time, I have seen the service continually evolve to meet the changing needs of young people, ensuring they receive the right support at the right time.
“Whether helping with housing, substance use, education, employment or life skills, Action for Children has developed a truly holistic and person-centred approach that makes a real difference.
“A key part of this success has been the strong commissioning partnership between Action for Children and the Health Improvement Commission. Effective commissioning is about far more than funding a service. It is about sharing a vision, agreeing outcomes and working together to ensure young people receive the support they need. Congratulations to everyone involved in reaching this significant milestone. Action for Children has made a lasting difference to the lives of countless young people in Guernsey, and I look forward to seeing that impact continue for many years to come.”
