Despite being separated by the English Channel, these two charities share a mission: to provide stability and opportunities for children. Here’s a closer look at their similarities and their vital roles in their respective countries.
Background and Mission
Police Children’s Fund: Formerly known as The Gurney Fund. Catherine Gurney founded the Christian Police Association in 1883, and the Police Convalescent Home in 1890, which became The Southern Police Convalescent Home and Orphanage in 1893. In 1948, this UK-based charity became grant-giving and has financially supported police children ever since.
It provides financial assistance to support the education and well-being of children of deceased or medically retired police officers from 22 contributing forces across England and Wales. With a legacy over seven decades the charity has supported over 4,000 children, offering educational grants, mental health support and celebratory gift payments to brighten children’s lives.
Orpheopolis: Established in 1921, Orpheopolis was founded to care for the orphans of police officers in France. It operates three orphanages and provides comprehensive support, including educational assistance, psychological support, and holiday camps to ensure the children have a semblance of normality and joy despite their losses. Like its UK counterpart, Orpheopolis aims to foster a sense of security and opportunity for these young individuals, ensuring they can pursue their education and personal development.
Support Services and Programmes
Educational and Financial Assistance: Both charities place a strong emphasis on education. Police Children’s Fund provides grants for general educational expenses, school trips, computers, and higher education. This financial support is crucial for families facing reduced incomes due to the loss or medical retirement of a police officer parent.
Orpheopolis similarly offers educational support, including scholarships and tutoring, to help children excel academically. By relieving the financial burden of educational costs, both organisations allow children to focus on their studies and future aspirations.
Mental Health and Wellbeing: Understanding the emotional toll that the loss of a parent can have, both charities offer mental health support. Police Children’s Fund provides grants specifically for mental health services, ensuring children can access professional help without the long wait times often associated with public services. This proactive approach helps mitigate the psychological impact of their traumatic experiences.
Orpheopolis also prioritises the mental well-being of its beneficiaries. It provides psychological support and therapy, recognising that emotional resilience is key to overcoming the challenges these children face. This holistic approach ensures that the children receive the care they need to heal and thrive.
Community and Outreach
Both organisations thrive on community support and the generosity of donors. Police Children’s Fund relies heavily on donations from active police officers and public fundraising efforts. Despite a decline in contributions, the charity continues to reach out to the community to sustain and expand its support network.
Orpheopolis benefits from a strong tradition of support within the French policing community and beyond. Fundraising events, donations, and volunteer efforts are critical to maintaining its operations and expanding its reach to more children in need.
Final Thoughts
While Police Children’s Fund and Orpheopolis operate in different countries, their missions are strikingly similar: to provide unwavering support to the children of police officers. Through educational assistance, mental health support, and community engagement, these charities ensure that their beneficiaries receive the opportunities and care they deserve. Their work not only honours the memory of the fallen or medically retired officers but builds a foundation of hope and resilience for future generations.
References and sources:
Chris Bockman, “Orpheopolis: France’s unique orphanage for police children.” BBC 3 April 2024. Link to article