Today, we celebrate a remarkable milestone—17 years of supporting children, families, and communities. Over the years, our charity has grown from a heartfelt vision into a lifeline for countless individuals, thanks to the dedication, passion, and hard work of our founder, Sue Bell OBE, and everyone who has joined us on this journey.

Reflecting on our founder’s journey

Our story began with Sue Bell, whose commitment to helping others has been the driving force behind our mission. Sue's journey has been one of continuous learning and growth, rooted in her belief that understanding the deeper emotional and developmental needs of children is key to their healing. Recently, her incredible development and contributions were highlighted in a spotlight feature, where she shared how her work with NeuroAffective Touch has enhanced her ability to connect with and support children affected by trauma. Sue’s insights into the power of touch and her dedication to integrating these techniques into her practice have impacted many lives.

Sue's dedication has not gone unnoticed. This year, we were thrilled to announce that Sue has been appointed Deputy Lieutenant for Essex, a testament to her tireless efforts and the positive change she brings to our community.

A year of achievements and partner support

As we reflect on the past year, we are grateful for the incredible support we have received from our supporters and partners. One of the highlights was receiving a £1 million grant from the National Lottery, a significant boost that will help us expand our services into Suffolk, reaching even more families in need. This grant is a true reflection of the trust and belief in our work.

In addition to this, our ‘PROM-Unity’ event was a shining example of the power of community and the joy of coming together to support a shared cause. Thanks to PROM-Unity, over 100 young people found their perfect prom outfits, alleviating some of the stress that prom or leavers' balls can place on families.

Going the extra mile—literally!

Our supporters have also gone above and beyond to raise awareness and funds for our cause. A standout moment from this year was when a group of dedicated cyclists took on the challenge of cycling 140 miles from Essex to Amsterdam. Their unforgettable effort not only raised vital funds but also highlighted the collective spirit that drives our charity forward.

Moving forward

As we step into our 17th year, we are filled with hope and excitement for the future. We are committed to continuing our mission of providing vital support to those who need it most, and we know that with your ongoing support, we can achieve even more.

Thank you for being a part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of making a difference together!