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There are so many ways to donate -such as events and challenges.
There are so many ways to donate -such as events and challenges.
Daniel is our Co-Founder and CEO. Daniel oversees all aspects of running and growth of Once Upon a Smile.
To think how far this charity has come since it was founded in 2011, seems unimaginable. It is however down to the hard work and dedication of all our trustee’s, staff, volunteers and supporters. Without them none of this would be possible.
I am delighted to lead this charity forward and ensure the support we offer is easily obtainable for even more families in the years to come.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that has helped and support us since 2011.
Danny is Co-Founder and trustee of Once Upon a Smile.
Danny’s involvement in the set up of Once Upon a Smile is in honour of his close friend, Emmerdale producer Gavin Blyth who sadly passed away.
I feel a great sense of pride with what we have achieved to date. The difference we have made to families is invaluable and this is evident by the thank you letters we receive.
To think we only founded in 2011, is just incredible but without our committee, supporters and volunteers, it wouldn’t have been possible.
Debbie became a part of the bereavement support team at Once Upon A Smile in 2022. After studying psychology Debbie has worked supporting children, young people, and their families within education and other charitable organisations.
She brings creativity, a calm space, fun and baking skills to the team and is passionate about being led by each child and young person in order to provide an individualised, creative, safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings and remember their loved one.
“It is brilliant to see children and their family’s building connections with one another through the Once Upon A Smile groups and activities. I am grateful to be a part of such a passionate and supportive team and see the difference that is made each day. I endeavour to continue to be a part of ensuring each child and their loved ones can access the right support for them at the right time.”
Outside of work when not making a mess in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes you can usually find Debbie out walking especially by the sea.
Kelly joined Once Upon a Smile in 2014 to support with the development of our bereavement strategy. As Head of Bereavement, Kelly is now responsible for the leadership and strategic direction of the bereavement department. Prior to joining us she worked for Winston’s Wish bereavement charity to develop their services in the North West, co-founded the charity Me 2 You and worked within the local authority. Kelly’s passion comes from being a bereaved child and her infectious enthusiasm inspires the team to achieve great outcomes for all OUAS families.
What you don’t know about Kelly – she has personally met every family that has walked through our doors since she started!
Our aim has always been to create high quality support to bereaved children and their loved ones at a time that’s right for them and dependant on their needs and choices. Sadly, too many families go unsupported, and children do not get the support they deserve. As I enter my tenth year with the charity, I am committed to upholding the organisations mission so no child grieves alone and that they are provided with support so they can grieve in a healthy and safe way. I am full of gratitude for the opportunities to be creative and for our dedicated, passionate, and skilled team who provide consistent service delivery and comfort to all those bereaved. Our vision moving forward fills me with excitement and I will continue to trust my instincts to see great things that don’t yet exist.
Outside of work – you will probably find Kelly somewhere near water or food! She loves to swim, loves being by the ocean and her happy place is in a nice restaurant with wholesome food and family giggles.
Her favourite quote is – You will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.
Sandra has worked with Kelly Willison as a volunteer since 2008. Sandra has vast experience in supporting bereaved children and we were delighted to welcome Sandra to our team.
I am delighted to become part of the team here, having been a volunteer for a number of year, I saw first hand the passion, dedication and difference this charity was making and I am delighted to be able to be part of that support.
Nicola became part of the Bereavement Team in 2017. She has always worked therapeutically supporting children, young people and families.
She brings fun, creativity, energy and enthusiasm, while holding a safe space for children and young people to explore, understand and express their grief.
She is passionate about giving children and young people a voice, always wanting to ensure that each and every one of them has the support they need and deserve.
“I have learnt so much from the children and young people I have supported, even my table tennis skills are getting better. I strive to advocate for bereaved families and ensure that every child and young person who needs a Bereavement Support Plan in their educational setting has this put in place for as long as it is needed”.
Outside of work you will more than likely see Nicola running at a start line for a race or hiking a mountain somewhere!
Coming soon!
Coming soon!
Charlotte has worked at several North West charities with experience spanning over 20 years. She has a passion for engaging communities and making a difference with extensive experience in events, marketing, and fundraising.
I am in awe of the amazing work that Once Upon a Smile do to support bereaved children. I am delighted to be part of this wonderful team helping to raise the vital funds needed to continue the much needed support.
Outside of work, Charlotte enjoys being creative and likes to set time aside to draw and paint.