Connie plans ahead for future employment, Tracy Beaker style

A seven-year-old girl, who is starting early in her quest to find a job, has enlisted the help of Action for Children to get her foot on the employment ladder!

Connie Dixon, from Barton-upon-Humber, who was inspired by Tracy Beaker - a character created by children's author Jacqueline Wilson - sent her CV straight to the national charity's Chief Executive, Dame Clare Tickell.

The no-nonsense primary school pupil's credentials impressed Dame Clare so much, that she was invited to meet the Action for Children team in the North, to find out more about what the charity does and talk to some of the people working with vulnerable and disadvantaged children in her area.

Just before Christmas, Connie, together with her mum and older brother, visited Kaleidoscope in Scunthorpe - a centre which provides information and support to parents and siblings of disabled children and young people.

She got the chance to interview Carol Iddon, Strategic Director of Children's Services in the North; Pat Chennels, Service Manager; Jackie Cooper, Practitioner and Gill Smith, Fundraising Manager, about the jobs they do, what kind of children they help and how and how she can get involved.

Connie was also given a tour of the building where she was particularly impressed with the playroom, specially equipped bathroom and garden area.

Connie's mum, Ruth Dixon, said the experience was a very positive one: "We had a brilliant time visiting Kaleidoscope and finding out more about the work of Action for Children," she said. "Once she got past her initial shyness, Connie was in her element and when she got home she said it was the best day ever.

"She is a highly motivated young lady with a keen interest in children less well off than her, inspired by the Tracy Beaker stories of growing up in a care home. It was fantastic for us to spend time with the truly dedicated staff of Kaleidoscope, learning about the outstanding work of Action for Children."

Carol Iddon, from Action for Children, said: "When I read Connie's letter I was immediately struck by her positive attitude and determination. "I wrote back straight away explaining that, although she is a little young to start working for us now, we would love to tell her more about what we do and see if she can get involved in other ways.

"It was a pleasure to meet Connie, despite her tough interviewing style, and I hope this will be the start of a long relationship between the Dixon family and Action for Children."