Two years ago, when data revealed that one in five children in Bath & the surrounding area were living in poverty, St John’s, together with more than 50 partner organisations, came together to form the ‘Action Against Child Poverty’ coalition.

In March 2017, fifteen members of St John’s staff and supporters, including CEO Sue Porto and local MP Ben Howlett, ran the Bath Half Marathon for AACP, raising an incredible £3,300 in support of the new AACP Lifestyle Change Programme (LCP).

The LCP is unique in B&NES with Sporting Family Change Foundation leading a collaborative partnership with six local charities, including Southside Family Project, Off The Record, Mentoring Plus, Wansdyke Play Association and SWALLOW. The aim of the programme is to help support and bring together communities in Twerton, Peasedown-St-John, Radstock and Keynsham.

The programme offers children and their families the opportunity to take part in a range of fun activities, from multi-sports to nutrition and cookery classes. It is also an opportunity to meet other local families and form friendships as well as raise aspirations and make positive healthy lifestyle changes.Wrapped around these activities are specialist services including family support, mentoring, employment opportunities, budgeting and debt advice, so that families can access all the help they need.