Sierra Leone

In Sierra Leone, we work with families that are in greatest need; those that are at risk of breaking down due to extreme poverty, illness or the death of a parent.

Sierra Leone remains one of the poorest nations in the world, with over two thirds of the population being unemployed and living below the national poverty line, and nearly a third of all children dying before their fifth birthday.

We work with every family individually, identifying their specific needs and supporting them in these areas. This can be healthcare, education, household income or housing. Our aim is to help them become self-sufficient and develop a supportive network so they can face their futures with more confidence.

We began working in Sierra Leone at the height of the civil war in 1996, providing shelter and care for children who were orphaned or separated from their families as a consequence of the conflict. We then helped them return to their families and communities after the conflict and continued to support their families to avoid family breakdown and child abandonment.

Today, we also support children who live and work on the streets of Freetown, strengthening their relationship with their families, enabling them to return home. This often includes healthcare, counselling, education or vocational training and essentials such as food and clothing. Once a child returns home, we continue to monitor their progress, and provide ongoing support and guidance.

The high levels of poverty and exploitation which continue to exist in Sierra Leone have also contributed to an increase in teenage pregnancy. Due to the stigma of having an illegitimate child, many young mothers find themselves estranged from their families and become extremely vulnerable. We work at reuniting them with their families or empowering them to be independent members of their communities. Whilst their babies are being cared for in day nurseries, they receive an education or vocational training and attend life-skills classes, which gives them a firmer foundation for the future. They and their children also have access to primary healthcare, health education and counselling.

Another important aspect of our work in Sierra Leone is developing common standards of care for vulnerable children, influencing the development of child-friendly social services and setting up minimum standards for the support and monitoring of orphaned and vulnerable children in communities. 

Our local partner in Sierra Leone is Hanci-SL. 

Nick Hewer, Lord Sugar's right-hand man on The Apprentice and patron of Hope and Homes for Children visited our programme in Sierra Leone. Watch the film below.