Welcome to Grace, Grit and Sparkles

Life isn’t always picture-perfect—and this space is all about embracing that truth. I’m Charlotte: a wife, a proud mum to a 22-year-old son, and a foster mum who has opened her heart and home to 16 incredible children. My journey has been anything but ordinary. I’ve navigated the highs and lows of menopause, survived breast cancer, and faced the shadows of childhood trauma, including sexual abuse. These experiences have shaped me, but they do not define me—they fuel my mission.

At 46, I’m hoping to step onto the stage of Miss Great Britain Classic Division for a third time, not just for the crown, but to amplify a cause close to my heart: the lasting impact of childhood trauma. Too many children carry invisible scars into adulthood, and it’s time we talk about it—honestly, openly, and without shame.

This blog is my safe space to share the raw, real, and sometimes messy parts of life, sprinkled with resilience and a little sparkle. Here, you’ll find stories of strength, survival, and self-discovery—because grace isn’t about perfection, grit is about perseverance, and sparkles? They’re the joy we choose to embrace, even in the darkest times.

If you’ve ever felt broken, brave, or beautifully imperfect, you’re in the right place. Let’s navigate this journey together—with honesty, hope, and a whole lot of heart.

 

June & July Round-Up – When Grace Meets Reality

2 Aug 2026 22:51

I had every intention of writing a June round-up, but life had other plans. Part of me wanted to share them straight away – part of me was scared because some people just wouldn’t understand especially given the reason why.  When you hear the word allegation you freeze.  Now the truth is in fostering you always get them in fact Darren and I have had them before and although these aren’t nice, they happen and its resilience that gets you through.  You need to remember that every child struggles sometimes and its easy to lash out. 

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