About us

Since 1859, the Catholic Children's Society (Westminster) has been reaching out to disadvantaged children and families. From “rescuing” orphans at risk of starving, losing their Catholic faith and the orphanages of yesteryear, to our counselling services and family centres today, we have kept the interests of the child at the heart of all the work that we do. We have evolved our services to meet the needs of the times, while never losing sight of the fact that children thrive best in families.  

 Our vision is of a just society in which

• Every child is loved and brought up by their parents.
• The dignity and rights of every individual are cherished with respect.
• The voices of the poor and vulnerable are listened to and acted upon.
• All families have access to decent housing and a living wage.
• Children and families have an opportunity to play an active part in their community.

We draw inspiration from Christian values derived from the Gospels and the teaching of the Catholic Church. We recognise that many of these values are shared by those who are of other faiths and none.

Our mission

Is to bring hope and change to children and families living with emotional and psychological distress which threatens spiritual, material and mental well-being and undermines family life.   

Our work

Is to provide counselling, play therapy, psychotherapeutic and support services to children and families in need.

Our goals

Are to work at a grassroots level, enabling emotionally and materially disadvantaged children and families to transform their own lives and to access the opportunities society offers.