The Gift of Possible: March at the Children’s Trust
Published on: 02/03/26
March at The Children’s Trust is all about the gifts we give in life, and the gifts we leave behind.
For nearly 100 years, our work has been shaped by extraordinary generosity, including gifts left in Wills. It began with one such gift that marked the beginnings of what would later become The Children’s Trust, and it has continued through the generosity of those who have chosen to remember us in their Wills ever since.
The importance of these gifts is even more apparent as we mark Brain Injury Awareness Month, reminding us of the impact that brain injury has on children and families and the importance of the right support at the right time. Gifts left in Wills help make that support possible.
In 1927, Tadworth Court was purchased to become a country branch of Great Ormand Street Hospital thanks to a generous gift left in the Will of Mr Peter Reid. That single act of kindness marked the beginning of what would later become The Children’s Trust.
Choosing to leave a gift in a Will is a profoundly personal decision. It sits alongside the wishes someone has for their family and loved ones and reflects the values and causes that have been close to their heart. To be included in that decision is something we never take for granted. It is an honour and a responsibility we treat with great care.
Nearly a century on from Mr Reid’s donation, gifts left in Wills continue to shape our work in transformational ways. One of the most significant was the creation of our specialist rehabilitation centre, the New Cheyne Centre, funded entirely through donations left by supporters in their Wills. Those gifts have helped us become the UK’s leading charity for children with brain injury and neurodisability. Every child who receives rehabilitation there today is part of that legacy.
Other gifts have also left their mark. A legacy restored the rose beds on our grounds, creating a peaceful space where families spend time together during their child’s stay. A long-standing volunteer who spent years driving children to appointments and activities chose to leave a gift that funded transport, helping ensure children can continue to access the care they need. Others have helped us invest in innovative therapies and assistive technology, as well as enriching, joyful experiences that support children throughout their rehabilitation and education.
Around 40,000 children across the UK experience a brain injury each year. For many families, life can change in an instant. Gifts left in Wills help ensure that expert care and compassionate support are there when that happens.
Legacies allow us to plan ahead with confidence. They help us invest in new approaches, strengthen our services and reach more children. They mean we can continue to stand alongside families at one of the most challenging times in their lives.
This month, we are highlighting our free will writing service for anyone who would like support to put their plans in place. You can write your Will online or over the phone in as little as 15 minutes through our partner’s award winning service or request a free pack including a voucher to use with a choice of solicitors in your area.
There is no obligation to leave a gift to The Children’s Trust, but for those who choose to do so, their generosity could help secure specialist rehabilitation and education here and support many more children and families in the years to come. here and support many more children and families in the years to come.
To those who have already remembered us in their Will, and to those who may consider it in the future, thank you. Your kindness helps children rebuild their lives and gives families hope for a brighter future. It truly gives the gift of possible.
