Cherry Tree Cottage shortlisted for two national awards

17 Sep 25

The Trust is delighted to be shortlisted for two national awards for its pioneering children’s home in North Hertfordshire, which it delivers in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council.

A group shot of four women smiling outside Cherry Tree Cottage. Two are wearing pink tops, one has a beige jumper and the other has a grey jumper.

The team were shortlisted in the Children and Young People Now Awards in the following categories:

· Mental health and wellbeing

· Children in care

Cherry Tree Cottage, which opened in February 2024, offers short-term, therapeutic support for young people aged 12 to 17 who are experiencing or recovering from a mental health crisis. It is the first service of its kind in Hertfordshire.

The team describes Cherry Tree Cottage as not just a service but a sanctuary. ‘For children and young people living with complex mental health needs, trauma, and disrupted childhoods, Cherry Tree Cottage offers something often lost - safety, stability, and hope.’

One young person, after years of placement breakdowns, began attending school part time for the first time in two years. Another, who had struggled with self harm, developed healthier coping strategies and regained trust in adults—thanks to the compassionate and skilled Cherry Tree Cottage team.

The service has also played a vital role in preventing hospital admissions and reducing hospital stays, easing pressure on acute mental health services.

Jemma Beedell, Interim Team Leader, said:

“We’re so proud to be shortlisted and recognised in this way. It reflects the hard work and commitment of the whole team, and the positive impact we’ve been able to have on the young people we support.”

The winners of the Children and Young People Now Awards will be announced later this autumn.

Congratulations to the Cherry Tree Cottage team on this outstanding achievement!

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Cherry Tree Cottage shortlisted for two national awards