Action for Russia’s Children: mission, vision and who the charity supports
Overview
Action for Russia’s Children was a charitable company (Charity No. 1064327) established to support local Russian charitable organisations offering alternatives to residential state care for disabled and disadvantaged children. The charity was registered on 11 September 1997 and, according to the public record, was removed from the register on 26 February 2020 and no longer operates. During its active years the organisation operated from Richmond Upon Thames and focused its grant making and support work in Russia.
Mission and vision
The stated purpose of Action for Russia’s Children was to promote general charitable purposes with an emphasis on the advancement of health, relief of poverty and support for people with disabilities. Its vision centred on creating sustainable alternatives to institutional care, supporting community-based organisations, and enabling disabled and disadvantaged young people to access services, education and family-style support.
Primary objectives
- General charitable purposes
- Advancement of health or saving of lives
- Disability support
- Prevention or relief of poverty
- Overseas aid and famine relief
Who the charity supported
Beneficiaries were children and young people, particularly those who were disabled or disadvantaged and at risk of being placed in state-run residential care. The charity provided funding and resources to local Russian organisations that offered alternatives to institutionalisation, such as family placement, community services, rehabilitation programmes and small-scale residential projects that aimed to mimic family environments.
Methods of assistance
Action for Russia’s Children supported partners through a mix of activities:
- Grant making to local charities and projects
- Providing human resources, including volunteers and professional expertise
- Delivering services and capacity-building initiatives
- Offering advocacy, advice and information to improve local practice
- Acting as an umbrella or resource body to co-ordinate smaller groups
Operational footprint and identity
The charity operated primarily in Russia with a UK presence in Richmond Upon Thames. It also worked under the working name A R C. While it provided funds and organisational support, the charity did not own or lease land or property, relying instead on partnerships with local organisations. Action for Russia’s Children was recognised by HMRC for Gift Aid, enabling UK donors to increase the value of donations where applicable.
Financial snapshot
Public financial information for the year ending 30 June 2018 shows total income of £124,286 and total expenditure of £170,774. The gap between income and expenditure in that year suggests a period of higher spending than incoming revenue, which may reflect grant commitments, project investment, or support costs. The charity’s main operational method was grant making, directing funds to partner organisations on the ground.
Governance and policies
The charity was established as a charitable company and had recorded policies, including a register entry referencing conflicting interests. Its registration history records a standard registration from 11 September 1997 and removal on 26 February 2020, with the register noting that it does not operate. These formal updates are important for transparency and for donors and partners seeking to understand the charity’s status and legacy.
Legacy and practical guidance for supporters
Although Action for Russia’s Children is no longer active, its focus on supporting alternatives to institutional care remains relevant. Donors and practitioners interested in this field should consider several points:
- Look for established local NGOs in Russia with clear safeguarding practices and community-based models.
- Prioritise organisations that demonstrate transparency in finances and outcomes.
- Consider capacity-building initiatives that strengthen local social work, family support and disability services rather than funding property or one-off projects.
- Check Gift Aid and tax relief eligibility when donating via UK-registered intermediaries.
Conclusion
Action for Russia’s Children served as a grant-making and support charity focused on improving life chances for disabled and disadvantaged children by promoting alternatives to state residential care. Registered in 1997 and removed from the register in February 2020, its public records provide a concise profile of mission, activities and financial snapshots that help explain its work and legacy. For those seeking to continue similar work today, the practical lessons are clear: support local partners, focus on family- and community-based services, and ensure strong governance and financial transparency.