Police Children's Fund

The Police Children's Fund is a UK-based nonprofit charity dedicated to supporting the children of deceased or medically retired police officers. Registered under charity number 1156903, the Fund provides financial assistance aimed at ensuring educational stability and developmental support for these children throughout their formative years.

History and Background

Originally known as The Gurney Fund, the charity has a legacy tracing back to 1948 and operates to assist children from 22 contributing police forces across England and Wales. The Fund was inspired by the philanthropic work of Catherine Gurney, who in the late 19th century established facilities to support police families, including the Police Seaside Home and Provincial Police Orphanage, laying the groundwork for continued care for police families[3][5].

Mission and Vision

The Fund's mission centers on providing financial support and stability to police children affected by significant changes in family life due to the death or medical retirement of a parent. Its vision is for every child of a deceased or medically retired police officer within its contributing forces to maintain financial stability throughout their education[1].

Activities and Support Provided

The Police Children's Fund offers grants covering various needs, including:

• Educational expenses such as school fees, computers, and school trips.
• Driving lessons and school holiday activities.
• Mental health support and higher education funding.
• Special grants for birthday and Christmas presents to bring additional joy to beneficiaries.

This broad scope of financial assistance helps children maintain normality and opportunities during times of personal hardship[3][5].

Values

The Fund operates under core values of care, compassion, and understanding. It emphasizes being present and responsive to the unique needs of each family with empathy and sensitivity, ensuring tailored support is delivered to those in need[1].

Impact and Community Engagement

Since its establishment, the charity has supported thousands of children—helping around 4,000 since 1948—with hundreds benefiting daily. It actively encourages donations from police officers and the wider community, including payroll giving and charity events, to meet growing demand, particularly as it expands services to cover mental health[5].

The Fund also engages supporters and beneficiaries through activities such as sponsoring participants in charitable runs and providing updates and stories showcasing beneficiaries' achievements and experiences[1].

The Police Children's Fund remains a vital resource for police families, providing both practical financial assistance and emotional support to help children thrive despite challenging circumstances.

[1] https://policechildrensfund.org [2] https://policechildrensfund.org/about/ [3] https://policecharitiesuk.org/charities-list/for-families-loved-ones/police-childrens-fund/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/5019390/charity-overview [5] https://www.polfed.org/leics/member-services/police-childrens-fund/