About Sunflowers Children's Action Group

Young family in a huddle with their disabled son.

About Us

Sunflowers Children’s Action Group was set up in 2019 by a handful of willing volunteers who wanted to create a special Christmas party for our local brave children. Our ‘Sunflowers’, as we call them, often don’t get the opportunities that healthy children do – going to parties, attending the cinema, and importantly, making friends.

Our families refer to us as their ‘Sunflowers family’ or the ‘Sunflowers community’, because the number of events they are able to take part in on an ongoing basis has provided them with a true sense of friendship, support and belonging.

Our partnerships with groups and businesses has further enhanced this community feel – we see our supporters as part of the Sunflowers community, and many of those who have fundraised for us go on to become volunteers themselves- although this is not obligatory!

Simply, Sunflowers isn’t about them, or us, or you – it’s what we as a community can be.

For Sunflowers to achieve its wider goals, we are dependent on willing volunteers – without them we simply could not do what we do.

Our trustees

Joanne Wright BCAh

Chair of Trustees, Fundraising, Event Planning and day-to-day business

joanne@sunflowers.org.uk

As a mum to a daughter with complex medical problems, I identify with our Sunflowers families. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that Sunflowers would be providing over 100 different sessions a year to promote friendships, reduce isolation, build confidence, increase fitness and witness thousands of memory-making moments. It’s down to all the volunteers, trustees, patrons, and this incredible caring community. I am beyond proud and excited for the future.

Kate Roberts

Safeguarding, Health and Safety

kate@sunflowers.org.uk

I really value being a trustee for Sunflowers Children’s Action Group. It’s rewarding to work with such a committed group of people who care deeply about making a positive impact. One of the best parts is seeing the direct results of our efforts, helping children and families enjoy experiences they might not otherwise have. Whether it’s planning events or supporting behind the scenes, it’s fulfilling to know we’re contributing to something that brings comfort, connection, and a sense of inclusion to families who truly benefit from it.

Paul McCormick

Compliance and Complaints

paul@sunflowers.org.uk

Creating a little magic for some very special families and their children, and the joy that our events can bring, makes this charity unique and one I am proud to be associated with. The passion and support from our team of volunteers is commendable, as everyone is committed to making a difference.

Derek McAndrew

Finance and Warehouse

derek@sunflowers.org.uk

I am delighted to be involved with Sunflowers Children’s Action Group. Attending the activities we organise for the families provides a huge sense of community and satisfaction knowing that our efforts have given a little bit of relief and joy to the children and provided lasting memories for the families.

Allison Rawling

Legacy & Volunteer Co-Ordinator

allison@sunflowers.org.uk

Having been a volunteer for Sunflowers Children's Action Group for a number of years, retirement gave me the opportunity to get more involved with the charity and I became a Trustee. It is wonderful to see the progress our Sunflowers Children make and their determination to overcome so many obstacles. I am so proud to be part of the Sunflowers Family.

Our patrons

Chris Chittell BEM

As a Patron of Sunflowers Children’s Action Group, I’m honoured to help children with life-limiting conditions push their challenges aside, even if just for a moment. Creating smiles, lasting memories, and moments of pure joy are what makes this role so meaningful.

Lisa George

It’s a true privilege to be a Patron of Sunflowers Children’s Action Group, a wonderful charity from my hometown that creates unforgettable memories for children with life-limiting conditions. I’m incredibly proud to support a cause so close to home, bringing light and joy to these brave young lives.

Chris Kamara MBE

It is an honour and my absolute pleasure to have been involved with Sunflowers Children's Action Group from its inception. To be asked to be around, particularly at Christmas time, and see so many happy faces and children having a wonderful day, sadly a rare occasion in so many cases, is such a joy! If I can be there to witness that alone I am delighted to give my time to it, knowing that my time is minimal compared to all the time and effort and care put in by Joanne and all her faithful volunteers. Unbelievable!

Nick Miles

It’s been an honour to support Sunflowers since the start in 2019. Every activity, every event, and every smile makes a difference- not just to the children, but to their families too. It’s wonderful to play a part in that.

Bhasker Patel

Being a Patron of Sunflowers means giving hope where it’s needed most—helping these brave children find strength in their toughest battles. I love knowing that every act of support brings a smile, a chance, and a little more light into their world.

Nicola Wheeler

As a Patron, I’m inspired by the unwavering dedication of Joanne and all the volunteers who make such a difference to the lives of poorly children. It’s heartwarming to see the joy the organised events bring—not just to the ‘Sunflowers’ themselves, but to their siblings and families as a whole.