As we approach Christmas and reflect on the year coming to a close, I find myself filled with immense gratitude, pride, and hope.
This year has once again reminded me why The Principle Trust Children’s Charity exists and why the support of our incredible community means so much. What began 15 years ago as a simple idea – to give vulnerable children the chance to make happy family memories – has grown into something truly special, and that is entirely down to the people who stand alongside us.
To our Patrons, who give so generously month after month, thank you. Your commitment allows us to plan ahead, to say “yes” to families who desperately need a break, and to ensure every penny goes directly towards supporting children. To our Supporters, whether you’ve fundraised, sponsored an event, donated toys, baked cakes, walked miles, or quietly given behind the scenes – please know that your kindness has had a real and lasting impact.
This year has also been a landmark one for the charity with the opening of our new respite home at Primrose Valley in Filey. Seeing families walk through the door of this beautiful new home for the first time has been incredibly moving. It represents hope, comfort, and opportunity – a place where children can feel safe, families can reconnect, and memories can be made that last a lifetime. My sincere thanks go to everyone who helped make this possible, from our Trustees and Staff to the businesses and individuals who supported us every step of the way.
We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of so many businesses this year. From long-standing supporters to those who chose us for the very first time – your belief in our mission means more than I can put into words. Special thanks must go to the many organisations who have gone above and beyond through fundraising events, sponsorship, toy appeals, and partnerships, helping us reach even more families across Yorkshire.
To our Referring Partners – charities, local authorities, children’s homes, schools, children’s hospices, and community organisations – thank you for trusting us with the families you support. Your insight and collaboration ensure we reach children who need us most, at the time they need us most.
And to our volunteers, you are the heartbeat of this charity. Whether you’ve wrapped presents, helped at events, supported families, took part in our BIG Clean or given your time and skills so generously – we simply could not do this without you.
As we look ahead to 2026, we enter our 15th anniversary year with a renewed sense of purpose. Children’s mental health is in crisis, and after listening closely to families and professionals across Yorkshire, we are refocusing our efforts to increase the number of respite breaks available to children struggling with their mental wellbeing – while continuing to support all children facing trauma, poverty, abuse, serious illness and disability. This refocus feels both necessary and urgent, and I am confident that together, we can rise to meet the challenge.
At Christmas, we are reminded of the power of kindness, connection, and compassion. Thanks to you, hundreds of children and families will experience moments of joy, peace, and togetherness – some for the first time in a very long while.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in The Principle Trust and for being part of our journey.
Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a hopeful New Year.
Mike Davies MBE
Founder, The Principle Trust Children’s Charity
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