SEDCU is a UK-based registered charity (Charity number 1161405) focused on supporting severely disadvantaged children in Uganda, primarily those who are deaf, sight impaired or blind, orphaned, deserted, or living in extreme poverty[1][2][5]. Founded by Jan and Ben Herdan after their visit to Uganda in 2011, the organisation began by sponsoring individual children to help them access education and has expanded its scope to include funding projects that benefit whole schools attended by these children[2][1].

Mission and Activities

SEDCU's mission is to broaden and strengthen support for disadvantaged children in Uganda so they can benefit from quality education and realize their full potential[5]. The charity operates on a personal basis, with trustees maintaining close relationships with sponsors, sponsored children, their teachers, and often family members[1]. Approximately 34 children, aged between 5 and 26 years, are currently sponsored[1].

While initial efforts focused on individual sponsorship, SEDCU also funds small-scale projects that improve educational facilities and opportunities for all children at supported schools. These projects have included construction of new buildings, provision of educational equipment, staff development and training, and funding activities that give children experiences outside the classroom to broaden their horizons[1].

Governance and Financial Stewardship

SEDCU is registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales and is compliant with relevant regulatory requirements, including filing annual reports and accounts. It is also registered with HMRC to recover Gift Aid[2][3]. The charity retains only 2% of donations to cover administrative costs such as bank transfers and printing, ensuring that the vast majority of funds directly support the children and projects in Uganda[1].

Ethos

SEDCU emphasizes a sustainable and personal approach to charity. Sponsors are encouraged to support their sponsored children throughout their entire educational journey, reflecting a long-term commitment to transformative impact. The trustees believe that, despite the charity's small scale, their work significantly changes young lives for the better[1].

This summary provides an overview of SEDCU's origins, mission, operations, and governance based on available information.

[1] https://www.sedcu.org.uk [2] https://www.sedcu.org.uk/about-sedcu-1 [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regId=1161405&subId=0 [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/5061160/what-who-how-where [5] https://www.justgiving.com/sedcu