Jess Webber
WLAC works with families in Chelsea that are facing huge challenges
Jess Webber is West London Action for Children’s (WLAC) newest and youngest patron. She is clearly very proud. ‘Whenever I go into WLAC’s office, I’m genuinely in awe of the team and what they achieve.
‘Everyone is friendly and the therapists are so dedicated to the charity’s work. I’ve watched children and their parents leave after a session or group activity and you can see that a load has been lifted from their shoulders. It’s incredible to witness how much progress can be made in a safe, supportive environment.’
Since it was founded in 1917 to address ‘the problems of moral evils affecting children’ WLAC has constantly adapted, reflecting society’s attitude towards young people in crisis. One thing, however, has never changed: its mission to help vulnerable children and their families in Hammersmith & Fulham and Kensington & Chelsea.
Today, WLAC is a professional operation funded by grants and donations. It currently helps over 500 people and is staffed by psychotherapists and counsellors who offer individual and family therapy and also run projects in local schools and drop-in centres.
Jess has a family connection with WLAC. ‘My mother is a trustee and when I was young she helped to arrange trips to places like London Zoo. I was lucky enough to join in and, from then, I always took part in volunteer activities. I’m now a Project Manager. Last year, I was involved in the Promises Auction for our centenary appeal – that raised over £30,000.’
As a patron, Jess acts as an ambassador for the charity. ‘I’m enjoying it. I want to raise our profile and find new volunteers, in particular amongst my age group. WLAC provides an amazing service for children and their families who have nowhere else to go. What’s so lovely is to see them meeting up and laughing and enjoying themselves.’
West London Action for Children
15 Gertrude Street, Chelsea SW10 0JN
+442073521155
team@wlac.org.uk
https://www.wlac.org.uk/
West London Action for Children
15 Gertrude Street, Chelsea SW10 0JN
+442073521155
team@wlac.org.uk
https://www.wlac.org.uk/