Our incredible supporters are the reason we can work with and support over 3,000 young people from challenging and disadvantaged backgrounds, providing much-needed breaks and fun at Lineham Farm. Regular support is crucial as it enables us to better plan for delivery and our future.
The support we receive from local businesses across the city is invaluable—we couldn’t do what we do without it! It’s incredibly rewarding to see individuals and teams coming together on behalf of children in Leeds. Some businesses choose to support us for a year, while others have been with us for decades.
This month, we’d like to shine the spotlight on Phil Davies, who now works for Aon in Leeds. Phil is a huge advocate for our charity’s work and is actively involved in both support and fundraising efforts. We caught up with Phil to ask him what supporting the charity means to him…
What initially drew you to support Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm, and how long have you been supporting us?
I moved jobs around 12 years ago and Leeds Children’s Charity was my new company’s chosen charity. This was down to the fact one of the staff’s family had been supported by the charity when they were growing up and they really appreciated it. Whilst they have moved on and my company has changed significantly, I have continued to support the charity, because I understand what a difference they can make to young lives.
What do you find most rewarding about being a supporter of Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm?
All you need to do is review the social media (Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn) to see how much fun the children have at the farm. A break at Lineham Farm is an experience that will live with them for years and we’ve contributed to that happiness.
Can you share any memorable moments or experiences you’ve had whilst supporting Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm?
I’ve had a number of memorable moments, from a decorating day at the Morecombe Bay site, to the Treasure Hunts around Leeds, they are always great events. But probably also roasting marshmallows up at the farm following the 30th Birthday celebrations and seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces.
Your generous support has had a significant impact on our charity’s efforts, benefiting many young people and families in Leeds. Could you share with us your favourite projects or initiatives you’ve been involved in whilst supporting Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm?
I organise a Treasure Hunt around Leeds City Centre each year and we have had 230 plus people attending. It’s great fun to organise, hard work on the night as it’s like “herding cats”, but it then becomes the topic of conversations for weeks afterwards. To top it all last year we managed to raise £3,500 on the night for the charity.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to make a difference but isn’t sure where to start?
Speak to any of the team up at Lineham Farm and you will quickly learn what a great set up they have, but also how much they require support to keep them going.
Is there anything else you’d like to add or share about your experience with Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm?
The enthusiasm shown by the whole team at Lineham Farm really is infectious and you cannot help but want to be involved.
Thanks Phil!
Jenny Jones, Head of Fundraising, Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm, said this of Phil as a loyal supporter:
“I remember when I first met Phil shortly after joining the charity. I thought he was such a passionate and dedicated individual (funny too!). It was heart-warming to see his enthusiasm for the charity, and today, that enthusiasm hasn’t faded one bit! It’s always an absolute pleasure to work alongside Phil and his colleagues at Aon. We are incredibly grateful for their unwavering support. Thank you, Phil, for supporting the charity and helping to make a positive difference for many young people across Leeds.”
Can you support us?
Your donations keep Lineham Farm a special place for the children in Leeds who need it most. Help us pay for children to spend time in a safe and happy environment, doing activities like riding bikes, climbing, learning about nature, and simply having fun.
If you can donate monthly or as a one-time gift, please click here to find out more. Perhaps you are part of a business that could support us? Find out about our business supporter packages and how your organisation can get involved in brightening children’s lives.
If you want to find out more about the work we do here at Lineham Farm, read about our impact. We’re on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and X. Please also keep an eye on our events page where we’ll add more upcoming experiences you could get involved in.