Childrens Chance legacy to continue through Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation

After 27 dedicated years of supporting children and young people in Salisbury and the surrounding areas, the remarkable local charity Childrens Chance has closed and transferred its remaining funds to the Foundation, ensuring that their wonderful legacy continues.

Run entirely by volunteers, Childrens Chance has provided vital opportunities for children and teenagers who, for financial reasons, might otherwise have missed out on life-enriching experiences such as music lessons, sports coaching, or school trips. For nearly three decades, the charity has supported around 1,500 children and teenagers through more than 3,000 grants, with funds raised entirely through community donations, fundraising events, and the generosity of local people and organisations.

We are proud that charity’s legacy will continue through our flagship Community Grants programme, which already prioritises support for children and young people. The remaining Childrens Chance funds will be directed into the programme, meaning the charity’s mission will continue for years to come.

Through grants to community organisations working with children and young people, Childrens Chance funding will continue to support those aged 4–19 years living in Wiltshire, within a 30-mile radius of Salisbury city centre, helping them access activities and opportunities that build skills, confidence, and wellbeing.

The connection between Childrens Chance and the Foundation was made possible thanks to Salisbury solicitors Parker Bullen LLP who introduced them to us while advising on how the charity could ensure its remarkable legacy and impact on local young people lives on.

Jane Miller, co-founder and long-serving volunteer of Childrens Chance, said: “We are delighted that the Childrens Chance name and purpose will carry on, albeit in a different format. Without the generosity of so many — donors, volunteers, professionals, and supporters — we would not have lasted 27 years.

“What has meant the most to us over the years is how much the charity has given us in return — it has been a joy to meet so many kind people who have given their time, help in kind, donations, and organised events. Our file of thank yous from the children is truly touching, and these are the things that have made the work so worthwhile.

“Although it is the right time to pass it on, we are profoundly grateful for the opportunities the charity has given us, and we are so pleased to pass the baton on to Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation to keep the spirit of Childrens Chance alive.”

Our joint Chief Executive, Fiona Oliver, added: “Childrens Chance is a remarkable charity that has made a lasting difference to the lives of children and young people in and around Salisbury. The fact that it has been run entirely by volunteers for nearly three decades is truly inspiring. We are honoured to be entrusted with continuing their legacy and will ensure that their generosity keeps opening doors for children who might otherwise miss out. It’s a privilege to build on such an inspiring foundation of kindness and community spirit.”

Details of our Community Grants Programme can be found here.