We know Father’s Day means something different to everyone. For many, it’s a time to reflect on and honour dads, grandads and father figures, whether they’re with us or remembered in our hearts.
This Father’s Day, honour a loved one by creating a Tribute Fund or sharing a special memory on our remembrance page. Every tribute helps their story live on while creating brighter futures for children and young people.
At Barnardo’s, we understand how important it is to pause and reflect. That’s why we’re sharing the story of Basil Cozens, a much-loved father whose life was shaped by the care and support he found with us.
Basil’s Story: A New Beginning
Born in 1918, Basil had a difficult start in life. When his aunt could no longer care for him, he came into Barnardo’s care at the age of 12. It marked the beginning of a new chapter. With encouragement and care, Basil thrived. He led school sports teams, excelled in class and found the sense of belonging he had been missing.
"The opportunities Barnardo’s gave our father meant everything," say his daughters, Christine and Alison. "He never forgot those who believed in him, especially Reverend Macdonald, who was a guiding presence when he had no father figure of his own. He would say Barnardo’s was the making of him. It is where his life began."
"He never forgot those who believed in him, especially Reverend Macdonald, who was a guiding presence when he had no father figure of his own. He would say Barnardo’s was the making of him. It is where his life began.
Christine and Alison
Basil's daughters
Read Basil's story
Life led Basil from training for the Merchant Navy to a career in printing, before finding his calling as a Minister. He taught Sunday School, supported refugee children, earned a degree in his fifties and continued writing with passion.
But the role that meant the most? Being a father. With his beloved wife Margaret by his side, Basil lovingly nurtured curiosity and kindness in their three daughters. He encouraged independence, shared practical skills, and always made time for laughter. Family holidays were modest and joyful, characterised by hill walking and paddling in lakes - simple pleasures. The family experienced sadness with the death of their middle daughter, Barbara, in her 20s.
Over the years, Basil found comfort in his grandchildren, his books, and the meaningful work he did within the community. Even in retirement, Basil’s connection to Barnardo’s never faded. He quietly gave back by volunteering at his local shop, sorting second-hand books and later receiving an award for his years of service.
When Basil passed away in 2007, Christine and Alison created a Tribute Fund in his honour. “We would not exist if it were not for the path Barnardo’s set him on. Honouring him in this way just feels right.” Each year, they light a virtual candle, make a donation and reflect on his legacy. So far, they have raised over £2,500 in his memory.
Tribute Funds: Honouring a loved one’s legacy
A virtual Tribute Fund is a space for friends and family to come together and share pictures and stories while raising money in their memory.
Each Tribute Fund is as unique as the person whose life it celebrates. And each fund, no matter how big or small, will help make sure that children and young people have someone to turn to.
Every tribute fund helps us build brighter futures for children who need us most.
Barnardo's In Memory Team
Share a memory
Celebrate someone special by sharing a loving memory or photo on our Father’s Day remembrance page.
We’d love to hear more about your loved one and their connection to Barnardo’s; you can email us anytime at [email protected].
Together, we can honour their memory and help build a brighter future for every child.
Set up a regular gift in their memory
By setting up a regular gift in memory of your loved one, you’ll be helping children and young people feel safer, happier, healthier, and more hopeful. Your ongoing support will honour their memory by helping fund specialist services, raising awareness, and campaigning to change the way the system works for children, young people, and families across the UK.
Remember them with a gift in your Will
A gift in your Will is a meaningful way to honour someone special and help shape a brighter future for children and young people.
Take on a challenge in their memory
Celebrate your loved one’s life by taking on a challenge in their honour. Whether you join one of Barnardo’s fundraising events or create your own, every step you take helps support children and young people across the UK.