About UNICEF

For 60 years, UNICEF has been the world's leading champion for children, working with families, communities and governments in more than 150 countries to build a world fit for children.

We support children by providing health care and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation and disease. We also protect children affected by crises including natural disasters, wars and HIV.

Our global reach allows us to share knowledge across borders while our local presence - 88 per cent of UNICEF staff work in developing countries - means we can deliver rapid assistance where it is needed most.

UNICEF is the guardian of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the Convention is the basis for all our work with and for children.

UNICEF UK was established in 1956. It is one of 37 National Committees based in industrialised countries. UNICEF works in the UK to champion children's rights, win support and raise money for our work with children everywhere. Our current focus is the global, five-year campaign Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS, launched in 2005 to support children affected by HIV and AIDS.

Our education team provides expertise on children's rights and global citizenship for children and teachers. Our youth team works with and for young people in the UK. The Baby Friendly Initiative works with health professionals to promote breastfeeding and ensure that all parents are helped to make informed decisions about feeding their baby.

UNICEF receives no money from the United Nations. Our programmes depend entirely on voluntary contributions. UNICEF in the UK raises funds for these programmes through donations, the sale of cards and gifts, partnerships with companies, and special events.

Please visit UNICEF UK's website for further information.