Grand support for award-winning scheme

A charity supporting children and young people through the loss of family members has been gifted £1,000 to support its work in the region.

Balloons provides pre and post-bereavement support to children and young people and their families in Exeter, Mid and East Devon and has been awarded funds from Persimmon Homes South West’s Community Champions fund.

Sara Bennett, for Balloons, said: “The death of a significant loved one is a critical, traumatic moment for children and young people. Unsupported they have poorer health and educational outcomes, are more likely to enter the criminal justice system, have higher teenage pregnancy rates, and are more prone to a range of psychological disturbances.

“This generous donation from Persimmon Homes is in support of our pre-bereavement work, where we support children in the stage running up to the death of a significant person in their life, usually their mum or dad, or a sibling.

“In 2018, Balloons supported 161 children and young people and more than 400 families and remains committed to the community.”

Robert Hart, director in charge at Persimmon Homes South West, based in Exeter, said: “We are proud to be supporting Balloons and their invaluable work helping children and young people in what must be some of the most traumatic circumstances.

“The support offered clearly has the potential to be lifechanging for clients and their families and truly makes a difference to the community.”

Nationally the Persimmon Homes Community Champions scheme has a fund of up to £64,000 each month to share among worthy causes. To apply visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity

Robert added: “It is always very difficult to choose our Community Champions from so many worth causes who apply, but I would encourage people to keep applying.”