Local children’s charity, The Principle Trust Children’s Charity, has announced a strategic refocusing of its work to place greater emphasis on supporting children experiencing mental health challenges, as concerns continue to grow across the region.
With this refocus, The Principle Trust plans to increase the number of respite breaks it can offer to children struggling with their mental health.
Since its founding, the charity has worked closely with organisations across Yorkshire, addressing urgent issues affecting vulnerable children and families. This partnership-led approach has ensured that its services remain relevant, meaningful, and grounded in real need.
The Charity’s renewed focus comes in response to a sharp rise in mental health difficulties among children nationwide, with the situation particularly troubling in Yorkshire. Families are facing increasing pressure, and many are struggling to access the help their children require.
The Principle Trust works with key regions across Yorkshire, working with many referring partners who engage with mental health and wellbeing support, including Hull and East Riding, Bradford, Sheffield, and Leeds. The mental health charity, Mind, shared with The Principle Trust that in Bradford, contact with the charity regarding child mental health had risen by 30%, translating to 18,731 contacts. This statistic emphasises the increased demand for mental health support amongst children, not just in Bradford, but across the whole Yorkshire region.
Poor mental health in childhood can carry long-lasting effects, influencing education, confidence, friendships, family relationships, and overall well-being. The Principle Trust has seen firsthand how the crisis is impacting families who turn to the charity for support.
In strengthening its commitment to children’s mental health, the charity is highlighting the essential role its respite breaks can offer, which provide a safe, calming environment for families to rest, reset, and reconnect. These breaks help reduce stress, rebuild family bonds, and create positive shared experiences, benefits that parents regularly report as having a meaningful impact on their child’s wellbeing.
Mike Davies MBE, Founder and Chairperson of The Principle Trust Children’s Charity, said:
“Our work has always been shaped by the needs of the families we serve. Today, we are seeing a growing number of children struggling with their mental health, and this demands a clearer, stronger response. By refocusing our mission and increasing the number of respite breaks we offer, we’re ensuring our support reaches those who need it most, when they need it most. A simple break can provide space to breathe, reconnect, and restore hope.”
Ilkley Playhouse unveils packed season of drama, comedy, music and live entertainment
GALLERY: Thousands celebrate Yorkshire Day in Ilkley
MP criticises lack of progress on Ilkley roadworks as Yorkshire Water extends working hours
Right at Home celebrates official opening of new office
The Little Calf offer free play sessions
Ilkley Civic Society launches search for the town's best building and conservation projects
Addingham Beer Festival returns this October
Veterans enjoy annual summer breakfast at Ben Rhydding pub
Ilkley garden centre wins top Outdoor Living award
Ilkley Care Home to host international food festival for the community
Yorkshire Day Weekend in Ilkley – ALL you need to know!
WATCH: Jason Manford gives 'honest' review of Leeds Bradford Airport
Alan Titchmarsh to judge Ilkley's new floral shop window competition
David Hockney's nephew opens contemporary art gallery in Ilkley
Cemetery guided walk exploring Ilkley's hydros history
Yorkshire Water confirms changes to A65 Skipton Road roadworks
Ilkley theatre group celebrate major success at Wharfedale Festival of Theatre Awards
Burst water main adds to A65 disruption in Ilkley
Silsden Community Centre launches fundraising appeal to unlock £10,000 for community project
Browns the Greengrocers to join Ilkley Market
