A parents’ counselling charity boss who posted an emotional video of her being rejected for grant funding has said she is overwhelmed by the response from the public after an emergency fundraiser to keep its services running exceeded its target.

Frome Birth Talk launched the emergency fundraiser in a bid to raise £10,000 by the end of last week to ensure it could keep its counselling waiting list open to new referrals.

The Somerset based charity has revealed that within a week it has exceeded this target with the current total standing at £11,500 as of 14 October.

The financial plight of the charity had attracted attention after its director Suzy Cristinacce posted a video showing her opening up a grant rejection email. She said she had hesitated to post the video which “shows my vulnerability” and that of the charity she has led for the last five years.



A total of 170 people have donated to the appeal.

“We are overwhelmed by the kindness and urgency with which our community responded,” said Cristinacce.

“Every donation, large or small, has helped us keep our waiting list open, keep waiting times short, and ensure parents who reach out for help still have somewhere to turn.”

She added: “We hope that awareness of Frome Birth Talks’ work and impact will lead to more grants as well as regular monthly donors.

“With regular income we can plan more confidently, support more families, and continue the work that so many parents have told us has changed their lives.”

The charity is among those taking part in this year’s Big Give Christmas match funding campaign.

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