Children’s Respite Trust – December Charity of The Month
This month, we’re celebrating the incredible work of the Children’s Respite Trust
The Children’s Respite Trust is an incredible local charity doing vital work for families across East Sussex, Kent, West Sussex, Brighton & Hove, and beyond.
What they do
The Trust provides much-needed short breaks for families caring for children with profound physical or learning disabilities — many of whom require round-the-clock care.
Their support includes: home-based support from trained carers, regular activities, and access to their dedicated Respite Centre in Uckfield.
The Centre is designed to be safe, accessible, and fun — with a soft-play area, messy-play corner, sensory room, family-style dining area, a quiet lounge, interactive games and more. It’s a space where children can enjoy themselves while parents and siblings get time to breathe.
Importantly, they also run a Siblings Club — giving siblings of disabled children a chance to connect, have fun and feel supported, through activities like sports, creative arts, drama, and wellbeing sessions. This helps ease the sense of isolation some siblings face.
Why it matters
Caring for a disabled child can mean unremitting demands on families — physical, emotional, and mental. The Children’s Respite Trust offers vital support to help families avoid burnout, reduce stress, and give children and siblings a chance to thrive in a safe, nurturing environment.
How you can help / get involved
- Donations and corporate support — your financial contributions help cover care costs, staffing, utilities, training, and more.
- Volunteering — from support roles to event-volunteering, there are chances to help hands-on.
- Spread the word — share this post, tell local friends/businesses, and help others learn about CRT’s work.
- Attending or supporting fundraising events — the Trust regularly runs events to raise vital funds to support their work.
A message from the Chamber
A message from the ChamberWe believe strong communities are built not just through business — but by caring for one another. By spotlighting Children’s Respite Trust, we hope to help ensure families caring for disabled children feel supported, understood, and valued.
If you’d like to get involved, donate or volunteer with the Children’s Respite Trust, visit their website at crtcharity.org or contact them on 01825 817417.