11 March 2014

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

EAST Grinstead-based children’s charity Jigsaw is to launch a £100,000 appeal to help Pick Up The Pieces on behalf of children and young people who are bereaved, or facing the loss of a loved one through serious illness.

Town Mayor Margaret Belsey will launch the appeal on 22 March at the Felbridge hotel where she will be joined by families from across Surrey and Sussex who have sought guidance and support from Jigsaw following the death or terminal diagnosis of a close family member.

The idea was conceived by one of the charity’s dedicated volunteers, Tony Allen.

Counsellor Belsey will unveil a symbolic 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle and appeal to local businesses, sponsors and individuals to purchase a piece of the puzzle for £100. In return, they will be helping Jigsaw to Pick Up the Pieces and continue its work.

All participants will receive their very own piece of the puzzle along with a certificate and a logo on the Jigsaw (South East) website.

Janey Treharne, Business and Development Manager, said of the East Court-based charity:

“Our service provides support to children who have lost a close family member through illness, accident, suicide or murder as well as those who have a family member with a life-limiting illness. It can be a very confusing and emotionally difficult time for children; they are often bewildered and frightened and find it difficult to talk to adults who may also be having a difficult time. We provide these families with support and guidance and a safe place to talk about their emotions and encourage them to make memories whilst meeting others in the same situation.

“We are a local charity and as with most small charities we do not receive any statutory funding and are dependent on grants, donations and local fundraising initiatives such as this one.”

Help to Pick Up the Pieces

TO help Jigsaw to Pick Up the Pieces call 01342 313895 or send a cheque for £100 to Jigsaw (South East) along with your details, at East Court, College Lane, East Grinstead, RH19 3LT.