David Beckham launches new charity campaign 'to make own children proud'

February 9, 2015Feb 9, 2015, 4:02 PM GMT

David Beckham has launched a new charity campaign for UNICEF with the aim of helping poor and vulnerable children from around the world. The retired footballer said that he hoped to make his own four youngsters – Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper – proud, and inspire them to get involved.

Just a few hours after David attended the BAFTAs ceremony on Sunday evening, where he made a surprise appearance presenting the Best British Film award, David stepped out looking just as fresh and razor sharp.

Speaking at a press conference the following morning, David announced his plans for his new project 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund, which is named after the footballer's lucky number on his England and Manchester United FC shirts.

"I am a father, I am a husband, I have four amazing kids who are thankfully healthy," said David, 39. "My children understand all of my work, especially Brooklyn who has seen me work in several different countries. I'm proud to tell them what I'm doing and I think it makes them proud."

The sportsman, who most recently travelled to the Philippines on a charity trip last year, described how he brought home photos to act as visual aids for his kids.

david beckham3 — David Beckham said he brought home photos of his travels to show to his four children

"The children will be getting involved because I'm gonna make them!" said David. "They're excited about that, they know what I'm announcing today."

He added of his equally famous former Spice Girl wife: "Victoria is working with the UN, which is very important because Victoria has a voice that people also listen to and respect and she's done some great work. Going forward, my children will be involved in this, and there'll be certain trips where they will join me."

david beckham4 — David Beckham said he hoped to take his children on future charity trips

David has been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for ten years. His new campaign will operate across seven countries and deliver results for children, whether in education, water and sanitation, health care or social protection.

"Since retiring I have more time and I want to do so much more," David has previously said in a statement. "This is me stepping up my support – because I can, because I want to, because the outcome will help change the lives of millions of children.

"Everything I have done, my football career, my family, has led to this point – this is the moment for me to do what I can to help children in every corner of the world. This is something I want my own children to be proud of."