Friday Focus - Children in Need

I'm not going to write a massive post today, because the Children in Need Appeal Show is far better to watch, with its wealth of stars, shows and the general public having a lot of fun in order to raise money. Don't forget to watch at least part of it, and check out the official website for more information.

But for those of you not from the UK this whole thing may be a complete mystery to you. So I thought I would give you a quick idea of what this amazing event is about.

Children in Need is a charity that, each year, gets the biggest celebrities, most popular shows and the general public together to raise much needed cash for, you've guessed it, Children in Need. The charity's vision is quite simply, "a society where each and every child and young person is supported to realise their potential."

Although money is raised throughout the year, the main event occurs every November. Schools, shops and businesses take part in activities to raise money (in the UK a real highlight for school kids is a "non-uniform day" where £1 or so is donated in order to go to school in your own choice of clothes!)

And then in the evening there is a massive show that runs for hours as the money pours in. They have the actors from the most popular soap operas on the telephones, taking donations from viewers. They have shows like "Merlin" and "Doctor Who" create special episodes centred around the appeal. And even our BBC newsreaders get in on the act, doing all sorts of funny things that you rarely see newsreaders do!!

Last year, the appeal managed to raise over £39million - all for children who need help, whether that be physical, emotional, educational or a combination of them all. Let's hope they manage to beat that score this year, after all the recession didn't stop the British public donating last year and the year before. This is something I love about living in the UK... for all our "problems", we really do have a culture of pulling together to help those in need. Can you believe this is the 31st year that we've been doing this?

So, if you're in the UK, don't forget to donate. And if you're an international reader, please do take a look at the official site to see what it's all about and why we Brits so love this day!

Comments

[Jenn]

Hi Amanda,

I haven't heard of this event. Thanks for sharing the links, I'd like to read more about it.