News & Blog

Trustees Week: What Does a Charity Trustee Do? Join us as a finance trustee

Keeping a small charity running is no easy task. It takes a dedicated team, generous funders, volunteers, supporters in the community and more to run the day-to-day and make sure we are doing the best we possibly can to support... Read More...

Youth Work Week 2026: How SELFA builds confidence, trust and futures

We’re celebrating Youth Work Week at SELFA!  Youth work is about so much more than providing activities to fill young people's time. It's about creating safe, welcoming spaces where young people can build friendships, discover new interests, develop confidence and... Read More...

Why the correct pronouns matter

How many times has someone used your name or a pronoun to refer to you today? Chances are this has happened many times. Now, imagine that your colleague, family member or a friend routinely calls you by the wrong pronoun... Read More...

Developmental Language Disorder: The hidden condition affecting two children in every classroom

Many of us struggle to find the right words for what we want to say. Sometimes, it’s hard to follow conversations or explain how you’re feeling. But for children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), this is their everyday experience. Around... Read More...
An image shows children at SELFA holding up their drawings about emotions and feelings.

World Mental Health Day: How we support children’s wellbeing

Having the right support at the right time can make a world of difference, especially to children and young people. That’s why at SELFA, we focus on helping children understand their emotions and feelings, build confidence, develop positive coping strategies... Read More...
Children play with a colourful parachute at SELFA children's charity

How we support children and young people with ADHD

October is ADHD Awareness Month, a time to challenge misconceptions and build greater understanding of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. At SELFA, around 20 percent of the children and young people we support have ADHD. Every day, we see the incredible... Read More...
An image shows the inside of a shop selling vape products.

How to talk to your child about vaping

Nearly one fifth of 11- to 17-year-olds in the UK have tried vaping. Because vapes haven’t been around for very long, the long-term health risks aren’t yet known. But, we do know that they’re bad for our health, based on... Read More...

School anxiety & school avoidance: How to help your child

If your child feels anxious about going to school, you’re not alone. One-third of secondary and one-fifth of primary students avoid or refuse to go to school at least once a month, according to a recent survey by Barnardos. The... Read More...

Legacy and lifetime giving: See the difference you make

As CEO of SELFA Children's Charity, I've been lucky enough to meet some incredibly generous people over the years. They all have one thing in common: they want to make a difference. On Remember a Charity Week, I've found myself... Read More...

Summer at SELFA: Adventures, activities and achievements for children and young people

From mountain climbs and seaside adventures to gymnastics, music and family days out, it’s been a summer full of fun, confidence-building and new experiences at SELFA. This summer:  286 children and young people attended a session with us.  We held 70... Read More...

Back to school: How to support your child through the transition

For some, heading back to school can be exciting. For others, it brings nerves and uncertainty. Whether your child is starting a new school, moving into a new year group or simply getting back into their usual routine, a little... Read More...

How to support your child through school exam results

Exam results day can bring a mix of excitement, relief, worry and uncertainty for young people. Whether they're collecting GCSEs or other qualifications, the day can feel huge. As parents and carers, it's natural to want the best for your... Read More...

How to build your child’s confidence without pressure

Some children are naturally more confident than others, and there’s nothing wrong with a child being quieter or more reserved, especially if they’re happy and comfortable in themselves. However, building your child’s confidence can help them feel more secure when... Read More...

How to create a routine for children over the holidays

The summer holidays are an exciting time for many families, but they can also bring challenges. After months of following the familiar structure of the school day, six weeks without a routine can feel overwhelming for children. Changes to daily... Read More...
A photo shows Ilkley Moor in West Yorkshire.

Summer Holidays: Free family activities at home and across Yorkshire

For lots of children, the six-week summer holiday is a welcome break from school. But for parents, it can be a different story - with many looking for activities to keep their kids entertained, while juggling work and more. At... Read More...

How to help your kids enjoy the outdoors

Sometimes, we all want to hide indoors in front of the TV. But when the sun is shining, or even in drizzle, it can make us feel good physically and mentally to step outside.  At SELFA, we get outside as... Read More...

Small Charity Week: How SELFA makes a big difference for children in North Yorkshire

This Small Charity Week, we wanted to shine a light on the big difference we make in the lives of children, young people and families across Skipton, Craven and North Yorkshire. Over the past year, SELFA has supported 763 children,... Read More...

Social media ban for under-16s: A positive step, but more must be done

The UK government has announced plans to ban social media use for children under the age of 16, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stating that the measures are expected to come into force in early 2027. The government says... Read More...
Two SELFA members walk wearing LGBTQ+ rainbow flags.

Pride 2026: Four things we do to help LGBTQI+ young people feel they belong

Two SELFA members wear LGBTQ+ rainbow flags. It’s not easy to be an LGBTQI+ young person. Often, they face increased ostracisation, social isolation and discrimination, which all have a serious impact on their mental health. Studies suggest these problems can... Read More...
A photo of SELF volunteer Bridget helping young people with a team-building exercise.

Volunteers’ Week 2026: Help us reach more children across Skipton & Craven

As we celebrate Volunteers' Week, everyone at SELFA would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the amazing people who give their time to support local children, young people and families. Whether they're helping to run groups, driving minibuses... Read More...
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