Danske Bank is proud to announce that it has appointed Extern as its charity partner in 2020. Operating since 1978, Extern supports over 20,000 people each year to change their lives.Our charity partnership is focusing on making more possible for thousands of vulnerable and socially deprived young people in Northern Ireland, who are supported by Extern each year.Social deprivation a very real and alarming issue in Northern Ireland, with as many as one in four children here living in poverty. In addition, in Northern Ireland in 2018/19, there were 3,281 children living in care.Money raised through our partnership will enable Extern to provide new opportunities for such vulnerable young people, including the development of much-needed sensory spaces and a sensory garden at its Kinnahalla Respite Centre in the Mourne Mountains. Every week at Kinnahalla, Extern care for children who need emergency care, respite from a crisis in the home, or when a care placement breaks down.

I am delighted to be able to take part in this virtual marathon relay to support such a worthwhile charity that tackles these issues right across NI, helping the most vulnerable people in our society. 

I would be very grateful for any support you can give, Aisling.