Children and young people across Northamptonshire who have experienced trauma and adverse childhood experiences will receive specialist therapeutic support thanks to funding awarded by Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Danielle Stone.
The KidsAid Foundation has secured £10,000 from the Commissioner’s Safe and Sound Communities Fund to deliver its Breaking the Cycle project, providing early intervention trauma therapy for vulnerable children and young people aged between two to 18 who are at risk of exploitation, antisocial behaviour and offending.
The funding will support 120 specialist one-to-one therapy sessions as part of a wider programme. Delivered by qualified trauma-specialist creative therapists, the project will help children and young people process traumatic experiences, improve emotional wellbeing, build resilience and strengthen the protective factors that reduce the risk of future harm.
Based in Northampton, KidsAid has supported children, young people and families affected by trauma and adverse childhood experiences for 19 years. The charity works with those impacted by domestic abuse, neglect, bereavement, family breakdown, illness and other life-changing events, offering tailored therapeutic support to aid recovery and long-term wellbeing.
Breaking the Cycle has been developed in response to rising demand for specialist trauma services and increasing evidence linking childhood trauma to poor mental health, exploitation and antisocial or criminal behaviour. Referrals will be made through KidsAid’s established partnerships with schools, police early intervention teams, social care services and community organisations, helping ensure support reaches those most in need as early as possible.
The project aligns with several of Danielle Stone’s priorities as Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, including early intervention, supporting vulnerable people and improving community safety. By addressing the underlying causes of distress and behavioural challenges before they escalate, the programme aims to improve outcomes for children and contribute to safer communities across Northamptonshire.
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone said:
“Early intervention is one of the most effective ways we can prevent vulnerability from escalating into crisis and help young people build positive futures.
“We know childhood trauma can have a significant impact on emotional wellbeing, behaviour and life opportunities. Without the right support, some young people become vulnerable to exploitation, antisocial behaviour and involvement in the criminal justice system.
“KidsAid has an exceptional track record of supporting children and families across Northamptonshire, and I am delighted that through our Safe and Sound Communities Fund we can help more young people access the specialist support they need to recover from trauma, build resilience and realise their full potential.
“Projects such as Breaking the Cycle make a real difference by tackling issues early, supporting families and helping create safer, stronger communities.”
The charity has welcomed the funding, which will enable more vulnerable children and young people to access specialist support before reaching crisis point.
KidsAid Development Manager, Kerry Mainwaring said:
“At KidsAid, we know that children don’t always have the words to explain what they have been through. Trauma can affect how children feel, behave and relate to the world around them, and without the right support, its impact can be devastating, affecting a child’s wellbeing, relationships, and future.
“Breaking the Cycle gives vulnerable children and young people the time, space, and specialist therapeutic support they need to work through their experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Through creative therapy, children can express things they may not be able to put into words, helping them understand their emotions, rebuild their confidence, and begin to move forward, rather than allowing their experiences to define their future.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for this vital funding. It will help us reach vulnerable children and young people who have experienced trauma, need specialist support and give them something every child deserves: the opportunity to be heard, understood and supported to heal.”
Community groups, charities and local organisations can apply for grants of up to £10,000 through the Safe and Sound Communities Fund. For more information, click here.
