Last week we hosted eight special All Together events with Build-a-Bear. 85 children, who all have parents deployed overseas with the British Armed Forces, were invited to a special event at eight  Build-a-Bear workshops across the country.

The trip was organised by our charity as part of our All Together program. The initiative aims to bring military children together to benefit from peer connection and shared experiences. During the Build-a-Bear visit, the children made their own bear to treasure while they are separated from their serving parent.

Louise, our charity founder, said: “Having a parent serving away from home for months at a time is one of the hardest things that military children experience. Sometimes having something as simple as a bear to cuddle when you are feeling sad can make a real difference. Today was a really special way to make new memories for them to share with parents when they get home.”

A Nationwide Shared Moment

The events took place in Windsor, Exeter, Edinburgh, Bournemouth, Basingstoke, Southampton, Maidstone, and Newcastle.  Our little troopers attended their local events on the same day and at the same time. It was a truly special summer event. All the children got a very special little troopers T-shirt for their bears and a gift of a water bottle from Build-A-Bear.

All Together online

These Build-a-Bear events are part of our broader All Together program. The initiative aims to help to build resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging. We have just launched our Autumn programme of online workshops. They are perfect for keeping the little ones (4yrs to 10yrs) busy and helping Mum or Dad have five minutes peace!