UK charity uses gaming to reconnect estranged kids with parents

While the gaming industry is facing increased external scrutiny regarding issues such as loot boxes and addiction, courtesy of tabloid hysteria, a UK charity is using video games to assist children in reconnecting with their estranged parents.

As reported in the Slough Express, the Louis Baylis Trust has awarded Church Street Child Contact Centre a grant of approximately £700 to purchase consoles and video games, providing a safe and relaxing space for children to play with their family members. This serves as an “effective icebreaker”.

Although the majority of its funding is earmarked for core operational costs, this additional grant allows the charity to acquire the necessary games and equipment to help families communicate and work together.

Jean Smith, from the Church Street Child Contact Centre, stated, “We find it’s a great way to break the ice, especially with older children who haven’t seen their estranged parents for a long time. It’s a way to work together. “

“We provide a safe and friendly environment for the children and support relationships with estranged parents if there’s no suitable place for them to meet. Without grant funding, we might not be able to operate as effectively as we do, and it’s truly wonderful and amazing. “

There are numerous other Child Contact Centres across the UK. If you have age-appropriate video games that you no longer need and are considering trading them in, it might be worth looking up these centres, making a donation, and keeping these positive gaming stories alive!