Theo Trust aims to help children suffering from trauma, tragedy or neglect. Where appropriate we offer long term support.
Our work began by helping Russian orphans with opportunities to study for a year in the UK at independent boarding schools. We continue supporting them on their return to Russia. We now also organise summer holidays at schools in the UK for orphans from Russia. These aim to foster friendship and cultural awareness. Often the host school provides physical challenges such as long distance cycle rides. These give the participants a real sense of achievement and greater self-confidence. Orphanage social workers tell us of a marked improvement in those who experience such holidays. Most recently we have begun helping deprived children in this country.
Theo Trust offers awards to students that encourage unselfish behaviour within the orphanage community. Such grants help students when they leave orphanages in Russia at 16 or the end of secondary education. Some matriculate to further education. The Trust may also top up grants to augment living costs (food, books, stationery, clothing etc). Most Russian universities offer orphans easier matriculation and free places. We encourage a focused approach to each child’s education through regular contact. This is achieved by texting, emails and newsletters. Ex-orphans also act as counsellors in the field. A trustee visits the orphanages at least once a year.
Theo Trust may assist ex-orphans in Russia with self-help home improvements, medical and dental treatment, and child allowances for single parent orphans in cases of special need.
The Charity is small with low overheads. Most of our running costs are met privately. Theo Trust was established in 1998. There are three trustees: Catriona Archer, a practising dentist and experienced in helping the Chernobyl Children Lifeline charity; Alan Passmore, a qualified solicitor recently retired; Richard Theobald, headmaster of Foremarke Hall School 1985-2000, also retired.
