It's a fair to assume you've noticed the logos on right, and wondered what some of them about. True, some of them are for our sponsors (and many thanks to them!), the top two are for charities. Some have asked me about this, why they are there, and what it's all about. Here's the answer, and a little more information besides.

Whilst Fordham Festival is not in and of itself a charity festival, we do aim to raise awareness of charities that are close to our hearts. This year, we're working with Cam-mind and Red Balloon, the links to which are over on the right. However, read on below for more information.

Cam-mind is Cambridge's oldest mental health charity, providing support to people with mental health problems since 1908.

Cam-mind is committed to raising awareness of mental health issues and to tackling the stigma and discrimination that is often the biggest barrier to recovery. We are working locally to provide mental health/wellbeing workshops and information to local businesses and organisations, and will be among the first in the area to deliver the nationally-recognised Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training.

This year, we have also decided to support Red Balloon. The aim of Red Balloons is the recovery of bullied children. They provide an 'intensive care' full-time education for children aged between 9 and 18 who are unable to go to school because they have been severely bullied. At least half of the students they work with have attempted or seriously considered suicide.

Once the students have regained their confidence and are able to cope academically and socially, Red Balloon support them in their return to mainstream school, their entry to further education or to employment.