‘Simon Says’ started when Simon Stanley, a 37 year old teacher from Southampton, died from cancer. His wife Sally found there was no bereavement support locally for their two small children. Their experiences led to the establishment of the charity that is here today.
Their research has shown that the Stanley’s experience is not unique and there is a wider need to provide resources and information to children and parents, and to those working with children eg: teachers, health professionals.
The need for support in Hampshire is astonishing. It is estimated that each year, around 400 parents die in the county, leaving around 690 dependent children (aged 0-17). Overall it is estimated that 4370* children and young people (5-16 years) in Hampshire have been bereaved of a parent or sibling at some point in their childhood (*source: childhoodbereavementnetwork.org.uk).
The charity became registered in 2001 and a formal launch took place on March 25th 2002.
We are proud to have ‘Simon Says’ as our charity partner and be able to provide ongoing support for the incredible work they do. From the moment we engaged with their team it was clear there was a shared passion and ethos, underpinned by a belief that more can be achieved together. At ActiveMe 360 we believe ‘people’s physical, mental and social wellbeing can be supported and enhanced using the power of physical activity, sport and education’, it is this mission and belief that will provide the foundations of our support and partnership.
360 Challenge – Our ActiveMe 360 team take part in a biannual ‘360 Challenge’ to raise money and awareness. In 2021 our team ran the ‘Great South Run’ and in May 2023 our team completed the Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge (58km first half), on behalf of ‘Simon Says’.
Fundraising Activities – We also support them by running smaller scale fundraising events. This includes fundraising weeks at our Active Holidays.
Awareness & Engagement – We will be supporting ‘Simon Says’ in increasing their school engagement to raise awareness of the excellent support services they offer, from writing and implementing a ‘Bereavement Policy’ to workshops for children, and training for staff.
If you would like to find out more about how we will be supporting ‘Simon Says’, or would like to get involved in supporting ‘Simon Says’ with us, we would love to hear from you.
Alternatively, if you believe ‘Simon Says’ could support you please get in touch with us and we will put in touch with their team.
