Variety the Children's Charity

Variety the Children's Charity, founded in 1949 as the UK arm of a 1927 US entertainment industry movement, is a veteran organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of sick, disabled, or disadvantaged children under 19 across the UK. Rooted in values of empowerment, dignity, equity, and limitless potential, it provides direct practical support—never cash grants—to bridge gaps in statutory services, fostering independence, inclusion, self-esteem, mobility, health, and long-term prospects for children facing disability, long-term illness, or severe poverty.

It prioritises specialist equipment like bespoke wheelchairs, hoists, orthopaedic beds, communication aids, sensory items, adaptive car seats, and sports gear, alongside iconic Sunshine Coaches (adapted minibuses for group outings) and short recreational breaks. Funding targets tangible, immediate impacts for UK-resident children, delivered via families, schools, small charities, hospices, youth groups, or professionals, with a focus on addressing disability's extra costs and poverty links.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered small-to-medium charities, schools, community groups, and individuals; no strict income limits, but preference for grassroots organisations. Applications are unsolicited and rolling via email/posted forms (with two supplier quotes and a medical letter), reviewed by local then national committees (meeting six times yearly), with decisions in 4-6 months—one per applicant annually. Typical grants are £1,000 or less, up to £5,000, paid directly to UK suppliers. Exclusions cover core costs, salaries, revenue, therapy, IT, maintenance, or general projects; its hallmarks are entertainment heritage, equipment expertise, and personalised interventions for unmet needs.