Local children charity picks bright new name

Tuesday 29 May 2018

Brig-y-Don is no more: the children's charity will now be known as Brightly to reflect the changes it underwent to suit the needs of the children and young people in Jersey.

The charity says the change was needed as the Brig-y-Don name led many people to think it only runs the children’s home, which they ceased to do in 2009.

The name change became effective yesterday and to spread the word the charity will be dropping 43,000 leaflets around the island.

The team explained: "We have always endeavoured to evolve the work of the Charity to suit the needs of the children and young people in Jersey. Consequently, we have made the decision to rebrand the charity to reflect these changes and to ensure the public understand the breadth of the support we now provide.

"It has been a hard decision to make, but vital for the future of the Charity and if we are to continue to improve the lives of Jersey’s most vulnerable children and young people. Our main aim is to continue as a small Charity, but one that can make a big difference, by both ‘Enhancing Childhood and Enabling Independence."

Brightly provides a wide range of support for islanders from their birth to the age of 25. This includes financial or material help for care leavers, so they can take driving lessons, attend doctor's appointments or follow educational courses, among other things. Brightly also helps them with gym membership, purchasing work clothing or educational items, including computers or cameras. 

They also support the children of care leavers and provide grants for care leavers up to the age of 25 who are setting up in their first home.