In these extraordinary times, it has been more important than ever that we pay attention to our wellbeing. Following Lockdown restrictions, we have seen a huge impact on both ourstudents and teacher’s mental health and looking at different initiatives and ways to reach out and offer support to both students and staff has been made a priority.
A wonderful Berkshire businesses Brown Paper Packages have been helping send care packages throughout the pandemic to those in need… all the care packages focus on different ways to improve mental wellbeing and are designed to inspire someone to try something new.
This month Brown Paper Packages has been shortlisted for Health & Wellbeing Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2021 Great British Entrepreneur Awards for the South East region!
Founder Helen O’Callaghan told us that ”during the pandemic Brown Paper Packages provided an alternative way to send support to those in need, including young people and staff… we sent just under 1000 wellness gift boxes to young carers who were struggling during the pandemic. The Young Carers Packages were designed to provide support to young people ages 11-18 who care, for a friend, relative or someone in their community. We also shipped 3000 boxes to a youth centre which offered different ways to look after your mental wellbeing”
Founder of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, Francesca James, said: “Creating the shortlist out of so many wonderful applications was incredibly tough, so I don’t envy the judges who will now decide the regional winners. Everyone who has been shortlisted should be incredibly proud and we’re thrilled to be able to showcase their achievements.”
Helen previously worked as a product manager but founded her brand in 2016. “my youngerbrother, who suffers from Crohn’s disease, was very unwell and I wanted to send him something meaningful that would offer him something positive to do while he was in hospital.” She says “Meanwhile, some of my close friends were going through really difficult times so I decided to create a care package brand that could show support and bring something positive during those times when you can’t be there in person. Little did I knowhow relevant that would be today.”
Brown Paper Packages was born, and now Helen sells gifts for men, women and children.
“The look and feel of our gift range is really important to me as a buyer,” she says. “Our gift boxes and packages are not only a beautiful treat, but they also offer positive benefits, and all our products focus on wellbeing and maintaining good health, especially mental health. “In December 2019 I launched ‘Build a Box’ where the customer can build their own gift box, and we started working with companies, charities and institutes creating a bulk offering ofbespoke care packages. We have seen a great response and received wonderful feedback from those receiving our boxes. People build boxes for all occasions, such as birthday presents, get well presents, thank you presents, or just to let someone know they are thinking of them.
