Mum's ‘incredible’ mental health toy is a world first

A MUM who launched the world’s first mental health toys to aid young children has been crowned the winner of a prestigious Midland business competition.

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The comforting plushes offer breathing techniques. Right: Company founder Fran Williams with her award

The Calmness Crew, founded by Fran Williams following her daughter's struggles with anxiety, was named by judges as the ‘one-to-watch’ in the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce’s Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition.

Fran, of Burton upon Trent, was inspired to start the brand after her six-year-old daughter suffered with severe anxiety following the Covid-19 lockdown.