The UK’s best loved bear and the help he gives to millions

Since 1980 BBC Children in Need has raised over £400 million for disadvantaged children and young people in the UK.

This year’s appeal night, on Friday 17^th November, is promising to be bigger and better than ever! Sir Terry Wogan, Natasha Kaplinsky, Fearne Cotton and, of course, Pudsey Bear host the star-studded extravaganza which regularly pulls in over 11 million viewers. Last year’s total was a phenomenal £33.2 million which was distributed to over 1500 voluntary organisations and registered charities across the country.

From Shetland to St Helier, all BBC TV Regions and Radio Stations pull together in this massive fundraising effort. Every single penny donated to the appeal goes directly to help a child or young person in need. All year round the team of grant officers and assessors work to ensure that donations go to projects and causes that will make a real difference. From funding the salary for a vital trained trauma counsellor to buying a valuable piece of equipment for a group of children with severe disabilities, every pound the public give is targeted to where it’s needed most.

Each year the public make it possible for BBC Children In Need to provide practical and lasting support to thousands of youngsters, including those who have experienced homelessness, neglect, abuse or poverty and those who have encountered serious illnesses, disabilities, psychological disorders or addictions.

From sponsored silences to marathon runs, the BBC’s Charity would not be possible without the incredible support of the general public. This year’s theme of Make It Count is already capturing the imagination of schools, workplaces and community groups up and down the country as they pull out all the stops for Pudsey.

BBC Children in Need are thrilled to have the support of BBC Three for this year’s appeal and thank all those involved in Celebrity Scissorhands for raising thousands of pounds for a great cause.

For a fundraising pack call 0845 607 333 or visit bbc.co.uk/pudsey. To make a donation call 0845 733 2233.