What We Do

Helping children with life-limiting illness, React works to give these children comfort, dignity and where possible, greater independence. This past year, we have supplied a wide range of equipment from specialist wheelchairs, beds, baths, and mobility aids, to essential everyday items like washing machines and tumble dryers.

   Why is React necessary?

There are currently an estimated 25,000 children living with life-limiting conditions in the UK (Association for Children with life-threatening or Terminal conditions and their families). Over 25% of Britain's children are being raised in low-income households (Child Poverty Action Group). These figures suggest that there may be as many as 7,000 terminally ill children nationwide whose families cannot afford the costly care they require.

A mother nurses an incontinent child at home. The washing machine breaks down. A replacement for that mother at that moment could be the difference between coping and despair.

A terminally ill child needs to be rushed to Great Ormond Street Hospital. But the parents live in Devon and simply have no money to travel to London and stay with their child.

It's in situations like these that may be the only lifeline. We work with medical professionals involved in paediatric care, and are able to respond to specific, identified needs.

   React is Unique

• React responds quickly to requests for help, sometimes within hours, with no red tape and meeting needs not met by the authorities or other charities.

   

• React works in co-operation with children's hospices and other support services and also backs research and education projects aimed at improving the quality of life for severely ill children.