Painted Smiles Project
Nominee Profile
Location: Taunton
I am incredibly honoured to be nominated for the National Diversity Awards 2026.
Painted Smiles Project was created in memory of my best friend Ella. Ella used to send the most lovely little packages out to her friends and penpals when they were going through a tough time so when struggling with my grief, I thought “how can I keep Ella’s legacy alive?” And that’s when Painted Smiles Project was born, turning grief into something meaningful by supporting others through difficult times.
The project provides free care packages to people across the UK living with mental illness, chronic illness, terminal illness, disability, neurodivergence, grief or who are just going through a tough time. We aim to bring small moments of comfort, hope, and kindness into their lives through items such as:
- Tea bags, hot chocolate and biscuits for some self care time in the form of a nice warm drink to relax.
- Quote cards and stickers in various formats to remind recipients that they are cared for and they’re not alone.
- Fidget toys for the days where things feel overwhelming.
- Colouring pages and pencils for a healthy distraction from their struggles.
- Samaritans charity support card with helpline number for the days where things feel too much and extra support is needed.
- When stock allows, specific items tailored towards a recipients hobbies or interests.
- And more…
Every package is sent with love, reminding recipients that they are seen, valued, and not alone.
In just the first 16 days of opening applications (1st–16th March 2026), 30 care packs were sent out, with demand continuing to grow every day.
Through community support, Painted Smiles Project continues to expand, carrying forward Ella’s legacy in the most meaningful way I could think of - helping others feel a little less alone.
If you would like to support Painted Smiles Project, I would be so grateful for your vote. Thank you so much in advance for any support 🤍
Painted Smiles Project was created in memory of my best friend Ella. Ella used to send the most lovely little packages out to her friends and penpals when they were going through a tough time so when struggling with my grief, I thought “how can I keep Ella’s legacy alive?” And that’s when Painted Smiles Project was born, turning grief into something meaningful by supporting others through difficult times.
The project provides free care packages to people across the UK living with mental illness, chronic illness, terminal illness, disability, neurodivergence, grief or who are just going through a tough time. We aim to bring small moments of comfort, hope, and kindness into their lives through items such as:
- Tea bags, hot chocolate and biscuits for some self care time in the form of a nice warm drink to relax.
- Quote cards and stickers in various formats to remind recipients that they are cared for and they’re not alone.
- Fidget toys for the days where things feel overwhelming.
- Colouring pages and pencils for a healthy distraction from their struggles.
- Samaritans charity support card with helpline number for the days where things feel too much and extra support is needed.
- When stock allows, specific items tailored towards a recipients hobbies or interests.
- And more…
Every package is sent with love, reminding recipients that they are seen, valued, and not alone.
In just the first 16 days of opening applications (1st–16th March 2026), 30 care packs were sent out, with demand continuing to grow every day.
Through community support, Painted Smiles Project continues to expand, carrying forward Ella’s legacy in the most meaningful way I could think of - helping others feel a little less alone.
If you would like to support Painted Smiles Project, I would be so grateful for your vote. Thank you so much in advance for any support 🤍