Turning Grief Into Action: Sharren Bridges’ Campaign for Change
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20 hours ago
1 min read
Updated: 13 minutes ago
In October 2021, 17-year-old Jen Bridges-Chalkley died by suicide at her family home. Diagnosed with ADHD and autism, Jen faced challenges throughout her life, including bullying, anxiety, and long delays in receiving the support she needed. Despite repeated referrals to CAMHS, she remained on waiting lists and never received timely mental health treatment.
An inquest held in April 2024 identified serious failings by multiple agencies, including delays in providing an Education, Health and Care Plan and a lack of therapeutic support. The coroner concluded that Jen’s death could have been prevented.
We supported Jen’s mother, Sharren Bridges, through the inquest and civil proceedings related to her daughter’s death.
Sharren went on to launch Jen’s Acorn, a charity that offers alternative education programmes for children who struggle in mainstream settings. She has also worked closely with local authorities to improve autism support in schools.
In recognition of her tireless campaigning, Sharren has been nominated for the Daily Mail’s Inspirational Women Awards. She continues to speak out to help ensure that no other family has to endure the same heartbreak.
