Barnardo's Church and Neighbourhood Development in London (CANDL) project was established in 1988 with the aim of improving the quality of life for children, young people and families in disadvantaged parts of east and south London, by providing hands-on consultancy and training to local church groups developing community initiatives.

Barnardo’s believes that all children and young people have a fundamental right to be a part of communities, groups and activities which enrich them. A sense of belonging in the community is one of the six “building blocks” Barnardo’s identifies as making up a happy, healthy childhood.

CANDL operates in the belief that churches have a significant role to play in actively striving for equality of opportunity, justice and peace across society as a whole and, specifically, within their local communities. Many local churches are key providers of grass-roots services for children, young people and families such as supplementary schools, carer and toddler groups, welfare advice and holiday playschemes.