Local volunteer Simon Stocker from Brighton has been named as the winner of a Support Award by the pregnancy and baby loss charity Sands.
The Sands Volunteer Awards Ceremony was held at the Sands Garden Day, at the National Memorial Arboretum on Saturday, 7 June. Simon was presented with an engraved trophy and a certificate by Sands’ Chief Executive Clea Harmer.
Simon Is a volunteer manager at Sands United FC Brighton and Hove and has been a Sands volunteer for several years.
He was nominated by his peers for leading Sand United FC Brighton and Hove and championing the support available through Sands within his local community. By creating a positive and inclusive environment for players, he has grown the team and has been recognised as constantly going above and beyond for the players and their families.
Simon said: “Managing and playing for Sands United Brighton & Hove has shown me the strength of community and the importance of real support. It’s a space where football and grief come together in a meaningful way, and every match honours the babies we’ve lost.”
“Through this team and my volunteering with Sands, I’ve learned so much about my own grief while supporting others through theirs. Just being there to listen, say their baby’s name, and hear their story helps normalise grief and remind people they’re not alone.”
“This club is made special by every player, volunteer, and person who gives their time for their angel.”
Sands’ Chief Executive Clea Harmer said: “Volunteers are at the heart of our community and so much of the work we do to save babies’ lives and support bereaved families would not be possible without their commitment and dedication. Simon has made such a difference in his volunteering at Sands United FC Brighton and Hove, and this shone through in their nomination.
“Thank you to everyone who nominated a Sands Volunteer for an award. We had so many amazing nominations come through, from all across the UK. We are always keen to hear from more people who would like to give their time to support our work so if you’ve been inspired by Simon we’d love to hear from you.”
This year, Sands named two awards after Sands’ Patrons, Bel Mooney and Hazelanne Lewis. Bel and Hazelanne, along with a small group of fellow bereaved parents, founded Sands over 45 years ago. Thanks to their dedication and vision, Sands has gone on to grow to become the organisation it is today, doing incredible work that continues to make an impact across all our communities.
The Bel Mooney Award for Raising Awareness and the Hazelanne Lewis Award for Leadership will ensure we continue to honour their legacy, by recognising the contributions of Sands’ volunteers.
The Garden Day is an opportunity to celebrate and connect the Sands community, with the Volunteer Awards and a chance to find out more about Sands’ work in the morning. In the afternoon a Remembrance Event was held for all babies, helping families and individuals to find hope.
The Sands Garden is dedicated to the memory of all babies who have died. At the heart of the garden is a Portland stone sculpture of a baby, created by the respected sculptor John Roberts. This year marks the 25th anniversary since the Sands Garden opened at the National Memorial Arboretum.
Find out more about volunteering with Sands at www.sands.org.uk/volunteering
Anyone affected by pregnancy or baby loss who needs the support of Sands can find more information at www.sands.org.uk/support
