Local children’s bereavement charity, Daisy’s Dream, has undergone a recent relocation and face lift in a move that it hopes will mean it can support more local children and young people affected by bereavement.
An updated branding and website has been introduced, a new chair of trustees has been appointed, and the charity has moved into new premises in Lower Earley, all designed to increase its visibility and make it more accessible to beneficiaries.
This relocation is especially important to the charity, as it will give them the opportunity to provide a safe and relaxed environment to welcome children, young people and their families experiencing loss. Their new premises are now in Chalfont Court, next to the ASDA superstore.
CEO Laura Lewis explains the difference this new space will make: “Feeling alone and isolated is one of the biggest challenges reported to us by the people we support,” she says. “We have created a really special, nurturing environment so we can hold groups and individual sessions. Being able to offer support flexibly and sometimes time critically can be essential for our families and this move will allow us to do this. We are really looking forward to growing the different types of support we offer and being able to meet the needs of even more bereaved children, young people and their families.”
Founded in 1996, Daisy’s Dream provides support for children and young people who have been affected by bereavement, either supporting them in preparing for a loss or working with them following the death of someone important to them. This is done through a combination of one-to-one and group support, as well as advice and help for parents, carers and professionals.
All support is free of charge, with the charity having to raise around £480k a year to provide this essential service.
Newly-appointed chair David Guille, is looking forward to a positive future, and knows all too well just how beneficial help given by Daisy’s Dream can be.
“I have been associated with the charity for over 27 years, initially as a service user as a result of being widowed with a young daughter and then as a volunteer and trustee,” he says. “All those years ago I realised first hand what an important service our charity provides both to the bereaved child and their families and I am delighted that we have thrived and continue to be an established, well recognised charity.”
For more information about Daisy’s Dream and the work they do, visit their website, www.daisysdream.org.uk
