Families in Grief celebrates £105,000 BBC Children in Need grant

Barnstaple-based bereavement charity, Families in Grief (FiG), is celebrating a generous grant award from BBC Children in Need.

Having successfully completed a comprehensive grant application review, local childhood bereavement charity Families in Grief will now receive a grant of £105,000 over three years. The grant will go towards funding two part-time Family Support Officers and some volunteer and activity costs.

Naomi Jefferies, CEO of Families in Grief, said: “We are truly delighted to receive this news - the funding environment is a challenging one at the best of times, especially when you are applying for funding of staff salaries. As a small local charity which receives no statutory backing, Families in Grief are incredibly grateful to BBC Children in Need.”

“Knowing Families in Grief now has the security of future funding for key staff roles, will not only help us to maintain our current service offering, but will enable the charity to plan ahead more effectively to develop the range of support programmes provided to bereaved families across North Devon and Torridge. Having BBC Children in Need on board will also be a real asset when applying to other funders - so thank you!”.

Daniella Lipscombe, regional impact officer, South West at BBC Children in Need, said: “We’re delighted to fund projects like Families in Grief and can’t wait to see the difference funding makes for young people across the local area. Funds donated by the public allow BBC Children in Need to continue providing support, guidance and a positive environment for young people and their families.”

The new grant is particularly welcome as the level of demand for bereavement support locally has grown. Last Financial Year Families in Grief saw an increase of 35% in the number of referrals received from families, schools and other professionals as well as growth in the complexity of these referrals.