A FUNDRAISING group has been awarded charity status.

Launceston-based Pete's Dragons was formed as a fundraising group in 2010 after the suicide of Peter Wicks, the brother of one of the group's trustees.

For the first few years money raised was distributed between suicide prevention charities and bereavement services.

With continued success the decision was taken to become a registered charity and alongside its continued support of suicide prevention and bereavement services, undertake its own services.

Its support can be either in the form of a hamper or a grant. Hampers are intended to alleviate suffering by breaking through the stigma that often surrounds suicide and acts as a message of support through providing physical gifts.

The charity also provides resources for children in the hampers that are provided to aid parents in supporting their children at a difficult time, including books, craft materials and memory boxes.

In the case of financial grants, these will pay for goods and services that are required to relieve emotional suffering in situations where the bereaved are also experiencing financial distress.

Launceston-based trustee Kayleigh Stringer is hoping to promote Pete's Dragons services to ensure these reach those who may truly benefit from them in the Launceston and surrounding area.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.