By arranging visits and events the children would not normally have access to; by offering support to families and carers in various ways; by taking groups to activities many of us regard as common-place; and by encouraging local businesses and organisations to offer their skills and resources, the Golden Lion Children's Trust aims 'to bring a little magic in to the life of the child with special needs & disadvantaged youngsters'.

The charity was started in 1973 supporting children with special needs from Sussex, parts of Kent and Surrey. Golden Lion Children's Trust projects are arranged so special needs children enjoy opportunities they are often excluded from; that help them develop an understanding and tolerance of the world around them; and families in crisis (identified by schools and other agencies, and often from low socio-economic areas) enjoy enriching experiences they would not normally have access to.

The GLCT offers varied exciting trips and activities to children, ensuring they have equality of opportunity regardless of their needs. Everyone has a chance to participate and reach their full potential. Volunteers benefit from working as a team. Local organisations and businesses gain a better understanding of the requirements of special needs children; and more tolerance of disadvantaged families. The GLCT "puts smiles on faces of children who often have little to smile about"