A DEVON-based national children’s charity has received a bumper £100k boost.

The £100k donation from Barclays Bank will fund places for almost 200 children and young people to attend breaks at the Go Beyond charity’s centres in the South West and Derbyshire.

The charity provides free respite breaks to children facing serious challenges in their lives, and is one of 100 charities across the UK to receive the valuable donation as part of Barclays Covid-19 Community Aid Package.

The support package was launched by Barclays in 2020 in response to the outbreak of Covid-19 and is being used to support charity partners who are meeting the immediate needs of people in UK communities, including low income families, those facing financial hardship, isolated elderly people and key workers.

Nigel Higgins, Barclays Chairman, said: ‘Incredible charities such as Go Beyond have been playing a vital role in the UK’s response to the pandemic, ensuring urgent help reaches those most in need of support.

‘As a bank we have been doing all we can for our customers, clients and colleagues, and we hope that by partnering with Go Beyond and many other charities across the UK, collectively we can ensure that as many people as possible in the communities in which we live and work are supported through this crisis.’

Suzi McGoldrick, Go Beyond’s director of income, said: ‘The last year has been exceptionally challenging for the children and young people our charity supports.

‘Many were already living in poverty, caring for loved ones, grieving or suffering the impacts of bullying and abuse.

‘Their isolation as a result of the coronavirus pandemic has only served to exacerbate their challenging home lives. Many have been unable to leave their homes, seek support or access the salvation of clubs or school. For this reason and more, we are humbled and grateful for the generous donation by Barclays.

‘As a charity we have faced a challenging year, with shops closed and fundraising events cancelled, so to receive such a significant amount is a huge support to us.

‘The sum will enable us to continue providing breaks to children and young people who have faced serious and worsening situations in recent months.’

Go Beyond launched a series of new Covid-secure day breaks in October, widening places on the breaks to include the children of key workers.

One teacher who booked places for her class said she hadn’t seen the children smile so much in months.

Unfortunately, while schools are once again closed under Lockdown 3.0 Go Beyond has had to stop its breaks but is making plans for when they’re able to re-start.

Suzi added: ‘When restrictions are lifted, we look forward to welcoming hundreds of children to our centres and ensuring they have the happiest days making memories to last a lifetime.

While the charity’s breaks are off, professionals working with vulnerable children can continue to book places for those who will need a break when services re-start, by emailing [email protected] or submitting a form online at www.gobeyond.org.uk/breaks.

Go Beyond is also inviting those who are able, to join Barclays in continuing to support its vital services.

Suzi finished: ‘Once again, we are asking for the support of our brilliant community to help children weather the stormiest seas. If you are able to continue giving to us at this time, visit www.gobeyond.org.uk/donate or call 01822 811020 and donate today. Thank you.’