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The Eleanor Rathbone Charitable Trust has committed to funding three “Help Your Child Thrive” programmes in schools in Knowsley. These programmes, set to begin in the spring term, will provide parents with the tools and training needed to effectively support their children’s learning at home, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). With a focus on consistency across home and school settings, the initiative aims to strengthen learning outcomes for SEND children. Organisers are excited to launch and grateful for the support, recognizing the significant benefits this will bring to parents and families.

Eleanor Rathbone (1872-1946) was the daughter of William Rathbone VI, an outstanding philanthropist dedicated to social reform. Among other achievements he established a District Nursing system in Liverpool which was adopted nationwide.

Eleanor was the first woman to be elected to Liverpool City Council and represented Granby ward from 1909 to 1934. In 1929 she was elected as an independent MP and continued in this position until her death in 1946. She was associated with many campaigns for social reform, particularly on issues affecting women. She is most often associated with the campaign to introduce Family Allowances, finally won in 1945, which has developed into Child Benefit. She was also involved with women’s suffrage, human rights, and refugee issues.

The Eleanor Rathbone Charitable Trust was set up to support Merseyside based projects, in particular, those who help women.