This month Tamara and I are giving to Coram Voice. They enable and equip children and young people to hold to account the services that are responsible for their care. Coram Voice uphold the rights of children and young people to actively participate in shaping their own lives.

In the UK today there are over 68,000 children and young people reliant on the state for their care and wellbeing, with 378,000 more needing some level of support from children’s services. It’s not their fault. They are there because their families cannot care for them safely or because they have been abused or neglected.

The care system should improve lives and be a positive experience, and for many it is. But for an increasing number the very system that has been put there to protect them lets them down. Unaware of their rights and unsure who to turn to, many struggle to access support they are legally entitled to, such as safe housing, benefits, education or advice.

Coram Voice advocacy services provide these children with a professional adult who will listen to them, establish their wishes, opinions and fears, and ensure their voice is heard. They help them to navigate the system, challenge decisions and make certain their rights and wellbeing are prioritised.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.