A CHARITY founder who helps families of children with life-limiting health conditions to build memories has received a ‘Points of Light’ award.

Christine Bentham, originally from Warrington and now living in Llandudno, founded ‘JUMP Children’s Charity’ which has provided professional photography services for more than 1,000 families.

The charity also helps families prepare for bereavement.

Christine set up ‘JUMP’ as a legacy to her grandson, Jacob, who passed away in 2004 following a life-limiting health condition. The photographs and video that the family had of Jacob, became an everlasting tribute and Christine wanted to help other families capture those memories.

The charity also runs a social community support network and runs themed ‘Memory Days’, where relatives can come together to enjoy activities and support each other. Christine hopes to be able to build on additional bereavement support for parents and siblings, including access to counselling.

On Friday, Christine met with Aberconwy MP Robin Millar. Robin took the opportunity to thank Christine for the help that she has given to so many families and presented her with a certificate on the Prime Minister’s behalf.

Mr Millar said: "It was a privilege to meet with Christine, to present her with a Prime Minister’s Points of Light award and to learn more about the work of the ‘JUMP Children’s Charity. I’m constantly impressed how people turn the challenges they have faced into creative, effective and valuable support for others.

“In founding the charity, Christine has helped to bring comfort to so many families across North Wales and throughout the North West of England who have cared for a child with a terminal illness. The charity’s work in helping families to build memories and to prepare for bereavement is as heart warming as it is inspirational.

“I’d like to say, once again, thank you Christine for everything that you have done in supporting families who have gone through the most difficult of times.”

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Christine said: “I feel humbled and honoured to be recognised in this way. The work of the ‘JUMP’ charity is only possible through the work of a truly inspirational team and hugely dedicated volunteers and this reward is a recognition of everything that they do to make a difference in communities throughout North Wales and the North West of England.

“The real reward comes from the pleasure we see on children’s faces at the events we organise – and the memories and milestones we help families capture from their precious time with their child.

“It was a pleasure to meet with Robin today to be presented with the certificate and to discuss the work of the charity in supporting families during their most difficult times. It is great to know that this work is recognised by the Government and is understood by Robin."