Who is IPER?

The Institute of Psychological and Educational Research was founded in 1972 by a prominent educationalist. Its child sponsorship programme has been running since 2001.

IPER is recognised and part funded by the Central and State Governments of India and has undertaken projects with support from UNICEF, but the organisation is hugely dependent upon funding from corporate sources, supporters and individual sponsors. At any one time IPER is involved with around 3,000 children in Kolkata. IPER provides a 24x7 support mechanism for children through its programmes for the deprived and disadvantaged.

Many children in Kolkata find themselves living on the streets either for part of the day or permanently. They may be orphans or abandoned, or it may be the simple fact that their parents have to go out to work and there is nowhere else for them to go. With no social security, welfare handouts or child care provision, the stark choice for many parents is between work, begging, or stealing.

IPER's purpose built Day Centre cares for many of these children. A holiday school provides education for child workers - still a major problem in inner city areas of India; late afternoon schools are organised for street children; medical help is provided where required and every child is given safe drinking water and square meals. There is a drop in centre, plus a centre for mentally handicapped children that provides love and care for those who cannot attend regular schools. Social Workers and staff at IPER actively campaign against child labour.

A 24-hour Childline operates with support from UNICEF, and IPER's Anti-Drug Centre works towards freeing parents and children from addiction and helping them rehabilitate within their communities. You can find more information on the IPER website at www.iper-india.com, or email your specific questions to IPER@savannahmarketing.co.uk