First Days -Emma Cantrell MBE
Guest speaker - Emma Cantrell MBE - First Days
Awarded an MBE in October 2023 for her services to vulnerable children, Emma is an inspirational speaker. One who is still passionate about the charity she started 11 years ago.
Moving to Wokingham with two babies, Emma was overwhelmed by kind neighbours passing on their unwanted baby clothes and equipment to her. Emma wasn't in need but wanted to make sure those who were, benefitted from the donations. Building on her experience of working with vulnerable adults and in drug rehabilitation, Emma approached Wokingham Council for a grant and the First Days Charity was born.
Today, no family with children in Wokingham, Reading and Bracknell needs to go unsupported. School uniforms, toys at Christmas, advice with navigating the bureaucracy of benefits, advocacy, mental health support and much much more are provided by First Days. Wokingham is an extensive borough with a big gap between the 'haves' and 'have nots', allowing for a cycle of goods and services to exist. Families in work but who are still struggling – especially in the current climate – are also supported. All of this is done in a way that maintains a family's dignity.
Emma reaches out to local businesses, local and national authorities and local charities such as ourselves to provide the many thousands of pounds needed each year to keep the charity afloat.
We are pleased to be providing our support this year. If you'd like to find out more about the history of First Days and how it works visit:
