Supporting local children and families

LHOPS helps primary schoolchildren and families facing hardship in Sherborne and surrounding villages.

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A child should never have to worry about their equal opportunities. When families struggle, financial burdens becomes a quiet weight that follows children into school, into friendships, and into moments that should feel carefree. LHOPS works with primary schools in Sherborne and the surrounding areas to lift that weight with practical help when it’s needed most.

A small amount of support can change a child’s week

Schools tell us that even a small amount of support can make a real difference. It can give families breathing room and help children come into school feeling calmer, more settled and ready to learn.
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How we help

LHOPS provides practical support to families identified by their schools through the free school meals system. This keeps support local, fair and discreet, with help reaching the children who need it most.

At Christmas, each family receives a hamper and a set of £5 vouchers to spend in local independent shops. During the school year, we also provide practical support that helps children feel included and more settled at school.

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Why it matters

Sherborne includes one of the poorest wards in Dorset, and nearby villages face similar challenges. More than 200 children are expected to need support this year. Even a small voucher can ease pressure at home and help a child feel more settled at school.
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Where this began

The appeal began in 2020, when Sherborne Primary wanted to make sure struggling families did not miss out at Christmas. With strong local support, it quickly grew into something much bigger.

By 2024, support had expanded to four schools and reached 197 families, with more than £15,000 raised. The project had outgrown a single school structure, so LHOPS was formed as its own registered charity.

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Growing to meet the need

This year, seven primary schools will receive support for the first time.

The number of families needing help continues to rise. LHOPS is growing too, so we can respond with practical support, stronger partnerships and a clear local focus.

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For businesses

Local people and businesses play a vital role in LHOPS. Their support helps children directly, while the voucher scheme also keeps money circulating in local independent shops. Businesses can support us through donations, fundraising, sponsorship or by helping spread the word.
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Started in 2020
Born from kindness during Covid and shaped by the community ever since.
Created by local people
Founded by residents, teachers and volunteers who care deeply about local families.
Built for dignity
Families choose what they need most with vouchers for food, clothes and many other essentials.
Last Christmas, 200 families received support that reminded them their community had not forgotten them. With your help, even more families can feel that support this year.
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