Mental Health Support & Signposting
Mental Health Support At Bright Futures UK, we understand how important it is to know who to turn to and to have someone to talk to when your mental health is not feeling strong. While we are not a crisis or therapeutic service, we are committed to helping everyone find the right support at the […]
Why Illness Must Be Central to Education Reform: Launching Our First National Report
Today marks an important moment for Bright Futures UK. We are proud to launch our first national research report exploring the impact of long-term illness on education for children and young people aged 5–24. At a time when education policy is under review — with significant proposed changes to SEND provision, EHCPs, and Individual Support […]
Missing children: Why does the government’s SEND reform plan overlook children with long term illness?
There is a lot to welcome about the government’s recently published plan to reform the SEND system in England. The reform plans that the government has set out are ambitious, but they are necessary if we are to fix a system under intense strain. However, there is a significant blind spot in what the government […]
Celebrating World Book Day 2026
Today marks World Book Day, a celebration of the joy and power of reading. First celebrated in 1995, World Book Day is dedicated to books, stories and the positive impact that reading can have on people of all ages. Across the UK, thousands of children and young people will be marking the occasion, often by […]
SEND Reform: 279,000 Children Missing School Due to Illness – Who Is This Reform For?
The government’s SEND Reform promises stronger inclusion and a more sustainable system. Reform is needed — demand is rising and families are waiting too long for support. But there is a group at risk of being overlooked. In 2025, 279,000 children and young people missed over 20% of their education due to long-term illness. Many […]
Bright Futures UK Welcomes Amy Dorfman as New Chair
We’re thrilled to welcome Amy Dorfman as the new Chair of Bright Futures UK! Amy brings over 25 years of experience in marketing and charity fundraising, alongside a deeply personal commitment to supporting young people facing serious illness. Her leadership across community organisations and major hospital fundraising initiatives makes her an incredible addition as we […]
Celebrating Student Volunteering Week: One Hour Can Make a Big Difference
Last week marked Student Volunteering Week, a national celebration of the impact students make in their communities. With themed days like Micro Monday and Wellbeing Wednesday, the week highlighted how even small acts of service can create meaningful change — not just for others, but for volunteers themselves. At Bright Futures UK, we know firsthand […]
Honouring the Life and Legacy of Nigel Henry
We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of our former Chair, Nigel Henry. Nigel served as Chair of Bright Futures for two years and made an extraordinary and lasting impact on our charity. He was a remarkable individual whose generosity, integrity, and unwavering commitment to making a difference touched everyone who […]
Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week
This National Apprenticeship Week, we want to highlight the important role apprenticeships play in creating meaningful and accessible pathways into work for young people. Apprenticeships can be a strong option for those who want to gain practical experience alongside a recognised qualification. They offer an opportunity to learn in a real workplace, build confidence, develop […]
Rebuilding Confidence: Florence and Robyn’s Story
Rebuilding Confidence After a Long Road to Recovery Florence began her Bright Futures programme in September 2025, just after starting Year 2. At only six years old, she had already faced more challenges than most children her age. After being diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in February 2022, Florence spent nearly three years in […]