Boo's Ball

A ball held to celebrate Boo's life, on what would have been her 30th birthday, raised an astonishing £174,000.

She was christened Charlotte Kate, but known as Boo, and, tragically took her own life on 29 July 2015 at the age of 23. Sarah, Boo's mother, said: “She was a much loved, beautiful, kind, popular and talented girl who outwardly had the world at her feet. However, over the latter years of her life she battled with depression and an eating disorder.”

Sarah had already raised money for the Trust, cycling from London to Aldeburgh in Suffolk, near where she lives. Wanting to do more, and to mark what would have been her daughter’s 30th birthday, she put together an “extraordinary” committee to organise Boo’s Ball. It was held at Aldeburgh Yacht Club, a place that Boo loved, and was attended by around 300 people, including Sir Mark and Lady Waller and Rick Waller (Charlie’s brother). They were joined by Mark Durden- Smith, a very good friend of Charlie’s, who did a superb job of hosting the evening and running the auction, which included stellar prizes such as a week in Antigua.

Dick Moore, one of our speakers, gave a moving talk, and it was fitting that in the programme Sarah reinforced the message: ‘Discussing depression must not be taBoo.’

Our CEO, Clare Stafford, says: “Boo’s Ball was a great event and fitting tribute to Boo’s life. The funds raised will enable us to extend our work, especially in the Norfolk and Suffolk area, to empower children and young people with the confidence to talk about mental health and seek support when they need it.”

To everyone who organised the event and those who came and supported it – we cannot thank you enough!