Celebrating 30 Years
Our Story
In 1995, while working as a youth worker, Chris Hickford MBE met a 13-year-old boy whose father had died by suicide. Unable to access the support he urgently needed, the young person’s wellbeing deteriorated as he waited for help. Chris recalls,
“I remember being told that if Tom was offending, in care, using drugs or suicidal, he could get help quicker. I thought that if we wait any longer, he will be all of those things.”
Determined that no young person should be left without support when they need it most, Chris founded The New Haw Youth Project in a converted broom cupboard at Fullbrook School. Today, that small project has grown into The Eikon Charity, and over the last 30 years has supported just under 250,000 children and young people across Surrey.
As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we reflect on how far we’ve come, the lives we’ve helped change, and our commitment to ensuring every young person has the opportunity to thrive. Watch the video to hear our story.
Eikon Timeline
View hereTo mark our 30th anniversary, we are proud to share our Stories of Impact booklet, a celebration of the people who have shaped and been supported by Eikon over the past three decades.
Within these pages, you will find inspiring stories from young people and families who have benefited from Eikon’s services, alongside reflections from the dedicated staff and volunteers who have helped make our work possible.
Together, their experiences paint a powerful picture of the difference Eikon has made in Surrey communities across the years.
Anniversary Event
On 30th June, we were delighted to welcome supporters from across Surrey to Brooklands Museum to celebrate this special milestone. Bringing together trustees, volunteers, partners, funders, businesses and donors, the evening reflected on our journey and the impact of our work.
Guests heard insightful discussions about the challenges facing young people today and, most importantly, powerful stories from young people whose lives have been positively impacted by Eikon’s support. The event was both a celebration of our achievements and a reminder of the vital work still to come.
Celebrate 30 years of impact by helping us shape the next 30
As we look ahead to the next 30 years, our vision remains clear: every child and young person should have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
The challenges facing young people are growing, but with your support, we can continue to provide help early, preventing crisis wherever possible and creating lasting positive change.
By supporting Eikon today, you can help more children and young people feel safe, hopeful, connected and able to build brighter futures for years to come.
