Welcome
to
Smiling
Families
Our Story
Smiling Families Charity was founded by Paul and Kerry Martin after Kerry experienced a life-threatening illness following the traumatic birth of their son, Owen, leading to ongoing health challenges.
Beyond the support of close family, they found very few opportunities to connect with others facing similar circumstances. Determined to change this, they began organising family fun days across the Midlands, creating safe, welcoming spaces where families affected by illness could relax, connect and make special memories together.
Alongside events, the charity offers support networks that foster friendship, understanding and shared experience.
Kerry is a qualified teacher and is currently training as a family counsellor to further strengthen the charity’s support services. Paul is a qualified trainer who regularly delivers sessions to NHS staff, helping to improve practice and procedures through lived experience.
Our Vision
We aim to create more fun, inclusive events for children and parents affected by illness, bringing families together and reducing isolation.
We are expanding our online forums to offer access to professional advice and strengthening partnerships with external organisations to ensure families receive the support they need.
At the heart of Smiling Families is a simple goal: to bring smiles to children and parents during difficult times, while strengthening and supporting the whole family unit.
Our Future Plans
- Support even more families in our community
- Host special events like a Teddy Bears’ Picnic with mascot guests
- Deliver “mobile beach” staycations for families unable to travel — complete with sand, games, mocktail bar and BBQ
- Offer practical support at weekly meetings, including visits from solicitors, medical professionals, counsellors and family photographers
- Provide first aid training and create more unique, memory-making experiences and days out
