Vice-President Visits Children's Centre

Just before Christmas, the Vice-President of the Methodist Conference, Matthew Forsyth, visited the Northampton Short Breaks Centre operated by Action for Children, an independent charity that is part of the Methodist family.

My visit as Vice President to Action for Children’s Centre was both encouraging and deeply affirming. I was struck by the professionalism, warmth, and flexibility of the team, and by the quality of care being provided through short-break provision and targeted safeguarding support. This centre is a space where children can come for a short break. It gives both the child a space to explore, learn and develop, while also offering often vital restbite for the caregivers. One of the particular highlights for me was seeing the personalised rooms, thoughtfully designed to make the space recognisable, safe, and fun for the children and young people who use it. The attention given to creating environments that reflect individual needs and interests was impressive, with the Mr Tumble room being the standout room, which I know my three-year-old would love! Spending time with staff reinforced just how complex the barriers families face in accessing services are, and how essential it is that provision remains responsive, safe, and genuinely enjoyable.

The visit also felt personal. Earlier in my career, I spent a year working in the Skills for Work and Living department at Stamford College, supporting SEND students. Seeing the work of Action for Children felt like coming full circle: the same values of dignity, patience, and belief in potential, now expressed through a different but equally vital context. As we reflect on our shared theme of our story, our song, Action for Children stands as a vital and enduring expression of the Methodist story shaped by a deep heritage of care, courage, and social justice, and continuing to find fresh voice in the present through its work with children, young people, and families. May we, as a Methodist Church, continue to support this vital work in the ways we can now and in the future. 

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Susan and to all the staff at the Northampton Short Breaks Centre for their dedication, generosity, and the welcome they offered during my visit.