A £150,000 fundraising appeal has been launched by the National Memorial Arboretum to improve children’s facilities at the 150-acre estate which welcomes over 20,000 young people for learning visits each year.

The Arboretum is seeking in-kind and financial donations from project partners to support its efforts to pass the baton of Remembrance to future generations by delivering upgrades to memorial spaces and play areas.

Refurbishment of the Garden of the Innocents, a memorial to children who are victims of war and terrorism, is the primary objective of the appeal. At the heart of the Garden of the Innocents is an Elder tree planted in memory of Anne Frank who died 80 years ago this month in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Each year the tree has its blossoms removed on 12 June, Anne’s birthday. As a result, the tree never bears fruit, just as Anne Frank was prevented from reaching maturity.

The symbolism within the garden extends to the planting. White flowers represent the innocence of children, while the raised beds are shaped like jigsaw pieces that do not fit together, symbolising the confusion and bewilderment children suffer through war and violence.

Originally funded through donations from various groups, including the Inner Wheel, no money was set aside for maintenance of the garden, and caring for the memorial has now become the responsibility of the Arboretum.

In addition to the restoration of the Garden of the Innocents, the campaign is also intended to support the reimagining of the Arboretum’s two play areas, allowing for the incorporation of greater theming and storytelling aimed at younger visitors.

“Passing the baton of Remembrance to the next generation is a fundamental part of our role as the Nation’s year-round place to remember,” said Philippa Rawlinson, Director of the National Memorial Arboretum. “As custodians of inspirational stories about the service and sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces, Emergency Services and civilian organisations, engagement with young people is crucial to ensuring that these memories will be preserved in perpetuity.

“Young people have a natural affinity with the stories encapsulated within the Garden of the Innocents, inviting them to contrast their own lives with those of children impacted by conflict. Our play areas are also important as they encourage young families to visit the Arboretum, and we are eager to incorporate greater storytelling into them as part of our reimagining.”

The Arboretum is eager to speak with businesses and individuals who may be able to become project partners by offering in-kind or financial support, including donations of materials, equipment hire, and skilled labour. To learn more about the appeal and how to provide support, visit thenma.org.uk.