In a couple of weeks I will (hopefully!) be running the New York marathon.  A year overdue owing to Covid travel restrictions last year, it feels it's been a long slog to get here so the extra motivation of raising money for a very worthy cause is getting me through the training.  

I'd be so grateful for any donations to the Simon Says charity, as would the children they provide such incredible support to.  Simon Says supports young people in Hampshire up to age 18 who have a significant person in their life who has died or is dying.  The charity runs a telephone help-line, hosts monthly support groups, provides counselling, written resources and information and offers advice, support and training to professionals dealing with bereaved children.

Each year, around 400 parents die in the county, leaving nearly 700 dependent children. It's estimated that over 4300 children and young people in Hampshire have been bereaved of a parent or sibling at some point in their childhood.

Simon Says depends solely on the generous donations received from companies, schools, community groups and individuals.  The support they offer is provided completely free so they need to raise a minimum of £120,000 per year, to enable them to maintain and develop their service.  Every penny helps to make a difference; £3 could provide a support booklet, £100 could recruit, train and support a volunteer.

Thank you so much!