
Alice Charity – Team of the Year and Business in the Community entrant
Alice Charity is a beacon of compassion, dignity and hope in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme – a community‑rooted organisation driven by the belief that every child deserves safety, joy and opportunity.
Its mission is shaped by profound need within Stoke‑on‑Trent which is officially one of the most deprived local authorities in England, ranked 13th out of 317.
In 2025 Alice Charity supported 9,874 children, provided 11,880 meals and welcomed 3,479 parents and toddlers to its Big Cup groups.
90% of Alice Charity’s service users report an improvement in their home conditions, reduced isolation or improvement in physical health. 95% of service users report an improvement in parenting skills, self-confidence, self-esteem and self-worth. 100% report am improvement in positive family interactions.
The charity’s team of 14 employees delivers care with skill, compassion and unwavering commitment. They are supported by 21 volunteers, who last year contributed 4,734 hours of their time.
Heather Sheldon, CEO of Alice Charity, said: “Alice Charity listens deeply to the children and families it serves. It adapts, evolves and innovates in ways that meet people where they are – whether that means offering evening support, expanding volunteer pathways, improving safeguarding approaches or strengthening early intervention.
“With transparent governance, strong ethical values and a culture built on dignity, kindness and respect, Alice Charity is more than a service provider – we are a lifeline.
“We keep families together, strengthen our community, lift children out of crisis, and build a brighter, safer, more hopeful future for every child.”
Alice Charity has entered the Team of the Year and Business in the Community (charity) categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.