Service Children's Champion

Service Children's Champion Supporting Service children in North Yorkshire

"What did you do during the summer holidays?"For some children, the answer might be a family holiday, days at the beach ...
07/09/2026

"What did you do during the summer holidays?"

For some children, the answer might be a family holiday, days at the beach or time spent with friends.

For many Service children, the answer can be very different.

A house move. A new area. A new school. New classmates. New routines.

While many children are excited to share their summer adventures, some Service children are beginning another chapter and navigating change once again.

This term, let's remember that behind every new starter is a story. A warm welcome, a friendly face and a sense of belonging can make all the difference.

To every Service child starting somewhere new this September:

We are glad you are here.

πŸ’¬ If your family has moved this summer, what helped your child settle in?

07/09/2026

Tea with the Champion β˜•οΈ
Let's start with a question I hear all the time:

'We only have one or two Service children in our school. Does this support apply to us?'

The answer is yes.

Every Service child has their own unique experience of military life, and even small schools can make a big difference.

So pop the kettle on and join me for a quick chat...

04/09/2026

Building Resilience Through Belonging

As Service Children's Champion, I regularly meet children who demonstrate remarkable resilience in the face of change. Yet resilience isn't simply about "being strong".

It's built through everyday experiences: predictable routines, trusted relationships, opportunities to talk, and knowing there is a community that understands.

For Service children, a sense of belonging can be one of the most powerful protective factors. When children feel seen, heard and connected, they are better equipped to cope with challenges and thrive.

Together, we can help every Service child develop the confidence and resilience to navigate the unique experiences that come with Service life.

πŸ’™

04/09/2026

With so many children (and parents!) preparing for going back to school next week here is a little message for those of you who not only are going back to a new term but also a new school... in a new place... with new uniform... new rules and expectations...and a new curriculum.

I remember it so well and my children would often be excited but also cling to my arm as we approached the school gates. So my advice is to take a deep breath and know that you are not alone.

02/09/2026

Building Belonging Through Music πŸ’œ

One of my favourite projects that I manage is the Service Children's Community Choir but it is about so much more than singing.

It's about friendships. It's about confidence. It's about shared experiences. It's about creating a place where Service children and their families feel welcome, valued and connected.

Every rehearsal, performance and partnership helps strengthen those connections and reminds children that they are part of a supportive community.

Together, we're not just making music. We're building belonging.

02/09/2026

So, here's something new for me...

I'm Angela, North Yorkshire's Service Children's Champion, and this is my first time introducing myself on camera. To be honest, I'd much rather be working behind the scenes, but if sharing a little more of who I am helps even one military family find the support they need, then it's worth it.

Over the coming weeks, I'll be sharing advice, opportunities, resources and stories that I hope will help Service children and their families feel more connected, supported and understood.

Bear with me while I find my confidence and figure out where to look on the screen!

29/08/2026

When we talk about belonging, what do we actually mean?

For a Service child, belonging might look like:

🏫 Being welcomed into a new school.

😊 Having a friend who says "come and sit with us".

🎡 Joining a club, team or choir and feeling part of something bigger.

πŸ‘‚ Having their experiences understood by the adults around them.

🌟 Having opportunities to share their voice, talents and ideas.

Belonging doesn't happen by accident. It grows through small acts of kindness, understanding and connection.

Together, we can create communities where every Service child feels safe, valued and included.

What helped you feel like you belonged when you were new somewhere?

27/08/2026

Every Service Child Deserves to Belong πŸ’œ

Behind every uniform is a family. Behind every family is a child with their own story.

Service children experience unique opportunities and challenges, from moving home and changing schools to time spent apart from loved ones during deployments and training.

Yet through it all, they show incredible resilience, adaptability and strength.

Every Service child deserves to feel seen, heard, valued and connected to the communities around them.

As Service Children's Champion, I'm committed to helping create opportunities where Service children can build friendships, find their voice and know that they belong.

πŸ’™ When the News Feels Worrying: A Guide for ParentsMany of our Service families have strong connections to Nepal through...
27/08/2026

πŸ’™ When the News Feels Worrying: A Guide for Parents

Many of our Service families have strong connections to Nepal through the Gurkha community. Following the devastating flooding and loss of life reported in Nepal this week, our thoughts are with everyone who may be affected, including those worried about family, friends and loved ones overseas.

When children see upsetting news or sense the worries of the adults around them, they often need reassurance, space to talk and reminders that they are safe.

If your family has been affected by the events in Nepal, please know that your Service community is thinking of you. ❀️

26/08/2026

Did you know North Yorkshire has a dedicated Service Children's Champion?

That's me! πŸ‘‹

My role is to support Service children and young people across the county, helping to ensure their voices are heard and their experiences understood.

Whether it's working with schools, supporting community projects, celebrating achievements, or creating opportunities for children and families to connect, everything I do is focused on helping Service children feel a sense of belonging.

I'm excited to share more about the people, projects and partnerships making a difference across North Yorkshire.

Follow along! πŸ’œ

Address

Colburn Children's Centre
Catterick Camp

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