I am raising money and promoting awareness of Children Rights and Rehabilitation Network (CRARN) which is a charity organisation based in Nigeria.

As some of you may be aware, I am a social worker in child protection in the UK and I am passionate about protecting children. There is legislation and support from the government and community in the UK to protect children however this is not the case for this particular issue in Nigeria.

CRARN supports children who have been accused of witchcraft/wizardry in Nigeria following misfortunes, for example the death of a family member, poor business sales. The accusation of such powers leads to children being abused, tortured and killed from as young as a few days old.

As the belief of witchcraft is so powerful and feared by many, whether they be rich or poor, educated or uneducated, there is very limited support for these children from their families, community and government.

For many, this will be the first time of hearing of such practices but they have been wide spread for generations and similar practices took place in the UK. From 1484 until around 1750 some 200,000 ‘witches’ (women) were tortured, burnt or hanged in Western Europe.

These practices still exist in the UK currently (albeit on a smaller scale). The last case known nationwide in the UK being Victoria Climbié.

CRARN began with a small group of volunteers in 2003 to shelter a few children who had been accused of possessing witchcraft power as part of a widespread witch-hunt in their community, which left hundreds of people and children dead in the space of two months. However the children who are in need continues to grow as this practice continues.

Whether you believe in witchcraft or not, the abuse, torture and murder of children needs to stop.

Being Christian myself, it is clear from teachings that Christianity promotes that children should be cared for and nurtured, not abused.

CRARN promotes children remaining with their families and community where it is safe to do so.

Please donate as little or as much as you can to support these children access the basics e.g. medical treatment, education, shelter and food. If you are unable to donate, then please become aware and spread awareness. I will match the final total of donations made also and I will be sending over clothes/shoes. Thank you for your time.