About us
Our Vision
That bereaved children and young people have somewhere to turn when someone significant in their lives dies.
Our Mission
To support bereaved children and young people in our area when someone significant in their lives dies. To work alongside their families and the professionals who care for them to further enhance the support they receive.
Our Values
Reflective, Compassionate, Supportive, Innovative, Trustworthy.
Our History
Since our inception all the way back in 2006, we have evolved and adapted to meet needs of our local community and we will continue to do so.
2022
With the end of the pandemic, Balloons moved into a new era of opportunities and challenges. As with many other charities, our volunteer numbers have dropped, and recruitment of new volunteers is key to us continuing to provide much needed support to children and young people.
2019
As with many charities, Balloons faced a huge challenge with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Closure of schools and social distancing prevented us from providing direct support and we had to rapidly adapt a new support model to ensure children, young people and professionals were not left unsupported during this traumatic time.
2015
Balloons appointed first Chief Executive, to lead on our management processes, provide expertise and ensure good governance. Balloons continued to expand, growing our volunteer base and providing increased support to the local community.
2014
Balloons officially changed its name to Balloons (Devon) charity number 1158666
2011
Balloons officially incorporated with companies house
2009
Balloons achieved an award of three years’ funding from the National Lottery which provided us with the stability to appoint a Family Worker/Trainer and a Project Manager and to establish an office base.
2007
Balloons was successful in obtaining seed funding to carry out an 18-month pilot project to establish what would be the way to support the local community. Registered with the Charity Commission.
2006
Balloons was first conceived by a small group of healthcare professionals who regularly encountered the adverse of effects of bereavement on children and young people but didn’t have anywhere to refer them for specialist support.
Staff team and Trustee Board
Our Staff Team
- Nicola Clarke – Chief Executive
- Liz Cook – Volunteer Coordinator and Supervisor
- Clare Hammond – Volunteer Coordinator and Activity Days Manager
- Donna James – Trainer & Volunteer Supervisor
- Tristan Billing – Office Manager
- Nasim Hartmann – Fundraising Officer
Our Trustee Board
Key Documents
Below you can find a series of key documents relating to Balloons.
Safeguarding policy
Balloons is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Safeguarding Policy
Data Protection statement
Balloons is a recognised data controller and is compliant with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), brought into law to strengthen and unify data protection for all individuals within the European Union. In the course of legitimate business, Balloons will process and retain, in electronic form or otherwise, certain personal data relating to contacts, clients, staff, volunteers, donors, partners and suppliers. Balloons commits to ensuring that all personal data will be treated strictly in accordance with the terms of the GDPR. This means that confidentiality will be respected and that appropriate security measures will be taken to prevent unauthorised disclosure.
Complaints policy
Balloons is committed to continually improving and developing our service. If you are not happy with the support you receive please see our complaints policy and process
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