War Child teams with music industry to help improve children's lives

20 October 2018

The idea of an organisation having a purpose that is bigger than the individuals it employs is a powerful one, and is something that National Business Award finalists War Child epitomise.

Shortlisted for the Lloyds Bank Positive Social Impact Award, War Child is a charity that seeks to improve the lives of children in war zones and former war zones, such as the civil war in Syria, the conflict in Yemen, and the recruitment of child soldiers in the Central African Republic.

They aim to protect, educate and stand up for the rights of the most vulnerable children and young people caught up in war, which at present have an estimated 250 million children affected by war zones counties around the world.

Rob Williams, CEO War Child UK said: “War Child isn't working towards a bottom line in terms of profit in the same way as a traditional company might, but we are working towards incredibly ambitious goals in terms of how many children we reach and how impactful and meaningful our programmes are.”

Since War Child's inception it's moved beyond the traditional fundraising mechanic and partnerships with the music industry have been central to its identity; from raising awareness about children's lives being severely affected by war, to raising money through albums and concerts and driving members of public to take part in awareness raising campaigns.

The release of the Help Album in 1995, which involved some of the greatest music acts of the time including, Sir Paul McCartney, David Bowie, U2, Brian Eno, Pavarotti, Coldplay, Bob Dylan, Oasis, Stevie Wonder, Paul Weller and Elbow raised £1.25 million alone. 

While music is still a key part of today's identity War Child is breaking new ground, and is a leader in the charity sector at developing innovative partnerships and with the gaming industry. It recently launched the award winning campaign Armistice, a peaceful movement in gaming to raise awareness for children affected by conflict.

Join War Child and all National Business award finalists at the ceremony on Tuesday 14th November, and share your success stories to help British Business prosper.