Taking a Big Breaktime to raise cash for NSPCC

A LEADING children’s charity is calling on nurseries and schools to raise money to safeguard children.

The NSPCC is encouraging educational centres to set up a BigBreaktimeforstudentsthis Friday.

This is to celebrate childhood day, where children and adults are encouraged to have a long break from the school day – focusing on playing and having fun.

It also gives them the opportunity to raise funds for the charity.

Gemma Graves, community fundraising manager for Hampshire, said: ‘Sadly, we knowthatnoteverychildhood is a happy one.

‘Nochildshouldhavetoface abuse and neglect.

‘But abuse is preventable and strong communities can help to keep children safe.’

MsGravesaddedthatanaverage of 14 referrals a day are made to agencies across London and the south east, investigating concerns about child abuse.Thecharityisencouraging children to use a Big Breaktime to play with traditional toys and games such as skipping ropes, hula hoops, balls, and even play hide and seek.

Childhood Day is the NSPCC’s flagship day of fundraising, which takes place on the second Friday in June every year.

Ms Graves said: ‘Following Childhood Day last year, we had lots of feedback from schools who told us they really wantedtogetinvolvedandsupport the day.

‘It’s a big and exciting break from the school day filled with play to help children make the most of childhood and to remind staff of its importance.

‘Wehopelotsofschoolcommunities across the UK will sign up and down tools, connect, have fun and help us to protect children.’