Based in Kent, Dandelion Time provides nature-based therapeutic programmes for children with serious emotional and behavioural difficulties and their families.
The charity supports children affected by highly challenging circumstances, typically involving trauma, abuse, domestic violence, or neglect. Many are struggling or have fallen out of education or are in foster care placements at risk of breaking down. Children with unresolved difficulties are referred by professionals involved in their care for specialist intensive support. Our purpose is to help children to overcome trauma and associated emotional issues, develop in confidence and self-esteem, have stronger relationships with those who care for them, and be better equipped to engage well with school, at home and in the community.
An intensive support programme is provided for over 200 children & families annually, delivered from the charity’s three sites in Kent. Children and carers participate together in a range of practical farm and craft activities through which they engage with the natural world. In small multi-family groups and individually they care for farm animals and gardens, complete pottery, woodwork and craft projects, and cook together using food they have grown and harvested on the land. Our therapeutic programme consistently achieves positive outcomes for highly disengaged children with complex and traumatic histories. Through practical experiential activities, each child is supported to establish strategies to overcome trauma and the challenges they face, grow in confidence and self-esteem and learn to regulate their emotions and behaviours.
Support from the Pixel Fund has enabled Dandelion Time to continue to run our highly successful Family Support Programme and to meet our strategic aim of providing support to some of the most vulnerable children and families in Kent.