Robert Callant

Robert Callant remains eternally grateful to Barnardos for the care and support he received as a young child – so he is “paying it forward” by leaving a gift in his Will.

After being given a positive start to life by Barnardo’s in the UK, Robert moved from England to Australia at 16 years old. He has since spent the rest of his life here where he married, had three children, a successful career, and is now happily retired.

Robert shares his reflections on his time living in the care of Barnardo’s at the Village Home, Barkingside, Essex in the 1960s. His story is one of inspiration and testament to the work we do to create a brighter future for Australian children.

“Each of the 12 children in the “cottage” was allocated daily chores. My first assigned task was polishing the brass knobs on all the doors of the house. It made me feel a worthy and esteemed contributor to the running of the household – and I felt valued for the first time in my life.

My recollection of those years was that I had a place with Barnardo’s where my welfare was always a priority. The love shown to me by Aunt Rosemary during my years spent at the cottage has always been deeply felt.

I believe that she was the embodiment of the philosophy practiced by Dr Thomas Barnardo; where every child was received with compassion and love, no matter what their circumstance. I look back at my time with Barnardo’s with deep affection and gratitude.

Today, I see Barnardos Australia continuing to do the work envisaged by Dr Barnardo and I have been a proud financial contributor to the work they do for many years. As I look beyond the present time, I have decided to include a gift to Barnardos Australia in my Will.

In some small way, I hope this gift will help another lost and bewildered little boy or girl; such that they too can have the opportunity to reach their fullest potential through life.”