Merger between Strode Park Foundation and Kent Kids is made official

The proposed merger between two local charities; Strode Park Foundation and Kent Kids Miles of Smiles was made official on 30th March 2011.

Last year the financial position of Kent Kids became so precarious that the organisation faced closure. The merger with Strode Park Foundation gives the children and young adults with disabilities at Kent Kids and 59 dedicated staff members greater security.

The decision to merge was taken after a long consultation period with residents, residents’ families, staff members, statutory funders, regulatory bodies and the trustees of both organisations. The overwhelming majority of these stakeholders have been wholly in favour of the merger and recognise it is in the best interests of everyone concerned.

The merger is a positive development for both organisations. It will not only give security to the staff and residents of Kent Kids it will also enable economies of scale and the pooling of resources to result in a stronger, more agile organisation well equipped to deal with future challenges and to continue to meet the shared goal of providing top quality services for people with disabilities.

The merger has been supported by two local MP’s, Roger Gale and Julian Brazier who quote as follows:

“I am delighted to endorse the merger of two great local charities, the Strode Park Foundation and Kent Kids Miles of Smiles. Both charities have done a wonderful job for many years, assisting deeply advantaged children and adults with disabilities. I wish them well for the future”. Julian Brazier, MP, Canterbury

“I welcome the opportunities that closer links between the Strode Park Foundation and Kent Kids Miles of Smiles will offer to some of the most courageous and determined people in our community. I very much hope that the supporters and clients of both organisations will benefit considerably as a result of this merger”. Roger Gale MP, Herne Bay/North Thanet