02 February 2020
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Buttle UK, which provides financial help and support to children and young people growing up in poverty, has received £100,000 raised by players of People's Postcode Lottery.
Over the next year, this funding, awarded through the Postcode Children Trust, will fund grants of up to £2,000 for more than 200 children, young people and families in Britain through the charity's Chances for Children scheme.
There are currently 4.1 million children living and growing up in poverty in the UK. Families on very low incomes often can't afford essential household items and many are faced with a choice of more debt or simply going without, adding stress to already difficult circumstances.
These factors impact on a child’s development. It has long been established that children growing up in poverty and disadvantage are less likely to do well at school, with a strong relationship between low income and low educational achievement. This can create a cycle of inter-generational poverty.
Buttle UK's chief executive Joseph Howes, said: “We are delighted to be supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery. We look forward to being able to tell the stories of how this funding has really helped struggling families in communities across the UK.
"This award means that as many as 200 children will be given a chance for change in their lives.”
By providing funding in the form of smaller, targeted grants, Buttle UK helps cover the costs of essentials, helping break down the barriers to a child’s development and ultimately their educational outcomes.
Distressing situations or environments can cause disruption, forcing children to miss school, impacting their learning while at home or resulting in them regularly moving or changing schools. In such circumstances, Buttle UK might fund extra tuition and/or extracurricular activities to help with learning, self-esteem and settling into a new community.
Hazel Johnstone, senior programmes manager at People’s Postcode Lottery, added: “I'm thrilled that players of People’s Postcode Lottery have been able to make a funding award of £100,000 through Postcode Children Trust to this fantastic charity.
"Buttle make a huge difference to the lives of so many families up and down the country and I am proud that players are now supporting their mission.”