Family Holiday Association

WHAT IS THE FHA?

The charity that gives families a break

The FHA is the only charity in the UK that specialises in helping provide holidays for families and children in need. Since it began in 1975, the organisation has helped over 100,000 parents, children and young people to have a holiday.

The objective

To increase awareness of the scale and scope of the problems associated with a lack of access to holidays. Statistics from the Office for National Statistics show about 2.2 million families don't go on holiday each year because of poverty.  It is estimated 1.5million families cannot even afford a day at the seaside. Social exclusion is damaging - physically and emotionally. Those excluded from holidays are often those most in need. Lack of holidays can have an adverse effect on health and well-being as well as causing feelings of depression, isolation and alienation from peers and society at large.

In its social inclusion policy, the government has recognised the importance of holidays and leisure. The work of the FHA includes providing grants to families towards the cost of their holiday; lobbying and campaigning for greater awareness and working with other like-minded organisations.

Who founded the charity?

The charity was set up by a North London couple Joan and Pat Laurance, who had a sick daughter and were struggling financially. A friend loaned them his home by the seaside, in return for looking after his cat. The Laurence’s came back refreshed and, recognising how a short holiday had enriched their lives, decided to start a charity to help families in need.

How is the charity organised?

The charity works hard to promote the quality of family life for those parents and children who experience disadvantage as a result of poverty through the provision of and by promoting access to holidays and other recreational activities. In 2008 they helped over 1,600 families enjoy a break as a result of our grant-making programme. The FHA is governed by a council of nine trustees led by Chairman Ian Reynolds.

The charity is managed by a staff team based at Mortimer Street, London with John McDonald, Director, at its head.  Head of Policy & Programmes is Thea Joldersma; Head of Fundraising is Joe Hipgrave; and Head of Finance is Patricia Appleby.

Visit the website for more information.

How can I help?

There are a number of ways to help support the FHA;

Make it a Gift - Are you often struggling to find a gift that's worthwhile, fun and just a bit different? A gift from the FHA’s ‘Give a Break’ website is an inspiring and interesting present for loved ones and friends to open on their special occasion.

Give a regular donation - Regular monthly donations help the charity plan and budget better. Why not donate regularly by direct debit? Click here to make a regular donation.

Sponsor current fundraisers - An easy, efficient way to donate and raise money for events. Click here for more information.

Visit their Amazon Store - The small commission the FHA earn on your purchases will help pay for a family's holiday! Visit the store by clicking here.

Recycle - By simply recycling your old ink cartridges, toners or mobile phones you help raise money for the charity. Click here to go direct to the website, fill in how many you have to recycle and they will do the rest.

Contact

For donations or general inquiries:

Address: 16 Mortimer Street, London, W1T 3JL

E: info@FamilyHolidayAssociation.org.uk

W: www.FamilyHolidayAssociation.org.uk