Coram was founded by sea captain Thomas Coram, who opened a hospital in 1739 to care for neglected street children. Today, Coram provides a range of services aimed at children and families, including adoption services, supported housing, a parents' centre, a family-support programme, an engagement programme for young men (Boys2Men), consultancy and training.

Where is it based?

The charity has its headquarters near Coram Fields in Bloomsbury, London. It is on the site of Thomas Coram's first foundling hospital and is today a park for children. As one of the UK's largest adoption services, Coram also has offices in East Anglia and the East Midlands.

What roles are available?

Coram works with 6,000 children and their families every year. The Bloomsbury site is home to a family centre, which provides various services, including a nursery for 106 children. Roles are also available in social work, the adoption service, and various projects including Boys2Men and in drug- and alcohol-intervention services.

Does Coram provide training?

As a training provider for other organisations, Coram offers training in running services for adoption, parent training and working with schools.

Can I volunteer?

Coram offers a number of volunteering opportunities, from providing practical assistance at its central campus, to helping service users prepare a CV.

Will I have heard of Coram recently?

Coram will deliver services for the UK's first family drug and alcohol court. The three-year trial, in conjunction with three London boroughs, aims to try to resolve substance-misuse problems before they split families. Research found that two-thirds of care proceedings in the boroughs were the result of substance misuse.