THE founder of a charity with roots in Launceston, that is helping hundreds of suicide bereaved families, has been named as a double semi-finalist in awards that aim to celebrate women in business.
Alison Jordan, chief executive of Pete’s Dragons, is in the running for both the ‘Inspirational Woman of the Year’ and ‘Influential Woman of the Year’ accolades at the Devon and Cornwall Venus Awards 2019.
She is one of 85 semi-finalists across 15 categories shortlisted from more than 1,440 nominations and applications. Finalists will be announced on February 8.
Alison started Pete’s Dragons after her brother, Pete Wicks, took his own life at the age of 24 in 2010. Alison and Pete grew up in Launceston and their mother still lives in the town.
Alison said: “I was thrilled to discover that I have been listed as semi-finalist for both inspirational and influential woman.
“I am proud to represent the vital contribution of women in the two counties and particularly their contribution to the third sector.
“I look forward to the next stage and wish all of my incredible fellow nominees the best of luck.”
The Exmouth-based charity is the only suicide bereavement support service of its kind in the South West and the most comprehensive service in the UK.
It currently provides bespoke support to around 300 people in Mid, East and North Devon.
Within Cornwall, the charity offers comfort grants for those in financial distress, ‘hugs in a hamper’ at Christmas and free holidays to people affected by suicide in its holiday home in Exmouth.
The Devon and Cornwall Venus Awards 2019 will culminate in a glamorous ceremony and gala dinner on March 29.
Dubbed ‘The Working Women’s Oscars’, the awards celebrate the vital contribution that women in business make to the local, regional and national economy, and are unique in that anyone can nominate a friend client or family member.
This year’s charity sponsors are Devon Air Ambulance and Cornwall Air Ambulance.
To find out more about Pete’s Dragons and the support available visit www.petesdragons.org.uk
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