To think children in need is out of touch?

[Tictocrobot]

It’s the idea that we should all be inspired by the tragic story of disadvantaged children. Sad music, celebrities visiting groups where disabled children are paraded so that all us at home feel thankful for our lot in life. We give £5 then thank our lucky stars and wash our hands of it.

I know that’s a sweeping statement but really? Disabled children aren’t tragic and why is it up to them to be inspiring?

Disabled children are people. They shouldn’t be marginalised. To only have an opportunity to go to an after school club because of a handout that could be removed at any time. The government should be making sure that all people can do all of the things.

I know, I know, budgets. But maybe just tax Amazon a bit more and stop scrimping at every turn.

In my county there is a waiting list of 400+ children to get a place at a SEN school. I have one child who I can sign up for music lessons, Cubs, swimming lessons, football club, drama club etc at the drop of a hat. I have another child who is not able to access any of those things.

I’ve gone off on a tangent. But I guess my main point is. Being disabled isn’t sad. It’s just another way of living. What is sad is the lack of funding and one night of celebrity culture and tear jerking videos isn’t going to solve that.

@toomuchlaundry not a left wing Labour govt they haven't

Op is also right that under this govt cuts to essential services for those in need (not just children) have been horrendous in both severity and length.

By not helping young people with mental health problems the government is storing up a health crisis for the future.

I heartily agree. The problem with democracy in general is that many govts don't care to look beyond the next election cycle and I would say on this matter Tory govts don't care at all mainly as they view mental illness as a morality or character failure rather than the illness it is. I have severe ocd the lack of services available is shocking and I know it's so much worse for kids.

@GrimDamnFanjo it came out a few years back that terry wogan was paid extra (on top of his bbc salary which was hardly nmw!) for doing it. I believe he claimed to give the pay to the charity on occasion not sure how true that is couldn't find confirmation either way.

Is there such a thing as a right wing Labour government 🤔

@JayAlfredPrufrock is that a serious question or sarcasm? I can't tell.

I personally consider new Labour a right wing govt and I'm not alone in thinking so then or now.

They may have appeared to some not to be as they were more centre right as opposed to Tory medium right but they certainly weren't left wing!

Blair has even come close to admitting so on a few occasions, he certainly didn't hide his admiration of thatcher! Not something I've ever known a truly left wing advocate to do!

@earsup

I read they are sitting on millions of pounds...why not spend it...dont support or give them a penny.

They give grants for multiple years.

One of the groups I'm involved with has been given a three year award. CiN have paid out the first year and will have the two other years put aside in their funds.

That money is what they're 'sitting on'. It'll be making interest and it keeps a tight rein on the funds so groups that fold, or who don't report back properly, don't have two/three years worth of money sat in accounts or going astray.

Yes, lots of charities have an existing reserves of funds but they are usually allocated and planned for.