Balloons take referrals for one-to-one grief support for 5-25 year olds in Exeter, Mid and East Devon.  This support mainly takes place at school, college or university but can also take place at home.

Referrals usually come from schools but can also come from a parent or carer. We also accept self-referrals for those aged 18-25.  Referrals from other sources may be considered, and we are always happy to discuss a possible referral with anyone who calls us.  Please note that ALL referrals must be discussed with a member of the Balloons staff team prior to submitting a referral, and for this reason you will not find a referral form to download on our website.  However, we do have a clear Referral Criteria which you should read before contacting us to determine whether a referral is appropriate. Click here to see the Referral Criteria

Referrals for post-bereavement support will only be accepted a minimum of 10 weeks after a bereavement.  Pre-bereavement referrals are taken on a case by case basis.  To maximise the benefits of Grief Support we ask that referrals are only made for children, young people and young adults who are not expected to be receiving other therapeutic support at the same time as receiving support from Balloons.  This includes other forms of counselling and support from Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services.

As a guide we aim to have referrals placed with a Grief Support worker within 12 weeks of that referral being received, although this cannot be guaranteed.

If you would like to make a referral to Balloons around a bereavement or expected bereavement, please contact our staff team on 01392 826064.