UPDATE: The STV Children’s Appeal has raised an impressive £2,444,119 so far in 2025, as confirmed during a live fundraising show earlier tonight from STV’s Pacific Quay HQ in Glasgow. This charity, dedicated to supporting children and families affected by poverty across Scotland, has now raised over £39 million since its launch in 2011.
The culmination of this year’s efforts took place in a live broadcast hosted by renowned TV presenter Lorraine Kelly. During the show, Kelly met individuals who have both supported and benefited from the Appeal’s initiatives. Among them was the Glasgow pop duo SAINT PHNX, who spoke about their impactful “Happy Place Workshop” project, which travels nationwide to provide children with a safe space for emotional expression through art and music.
Reflecting on the Appeal’s success, Rufus Radcliffe, STV CEO and trustee of the Appeal, stated: “We were reminded tonight, live on STV, that the work of projects supported by the STV Children’s Appeal has a truly transformative impact on thousands of children and families right across Scotland.” He expressed gratitude for the “unwavering generosity of the people of Scotland,” which he said is “extremely inspiring.”
The Scottish Government has been a crucial ally to the STV Children’s Appeal since its inception, committing up to £1 million annually in match funding. First Minister John Swinney emphasized the importance of this support, stating: “Ending child poverty is my top priority as First Minister. Every child in Scotland deserves a decent start in life, no matter where they are from or the circumstances they’re born into.”
Swinney’s commitment to match public fund donations will significantly bolster support for families in dire situations. “I am very proud that the Scottish Government is able to support STV Children’s Appeal in improving the lives of children and families across Scotland,” he added.
All funds raised by the Appeal are allocated directly to support initiatives in Scotland, with administrative costs covered by STV and a portion of donations from The Wood Foundation. This year, The Wood Foundation contributed £150,000, increasing their total donations throughout the partnership to nearly £2 million.
Garreth Wood, MBE, Chairman of The Wood Foundation, remarked: “The Wood Foundation supports young people across Scotland through empowering communities. I am inspired by the work these organizations undertake to develop young people and tackle the causes of child poverty.”
The STV Children’s Appeal remains open for donations. Supporters can contribute to the cause by visiting stv.tv/appeal. Additionally, viewers can catch the live show on STV Player, showcasing the significant impact of this year’s fundraising efforts.
As the Appeal pushes forward, the urgency to address child poverty in Scotland remains critical. Stay tuned for further updates on how donations are making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families across the nation.
