Sandy Bear exist to support children, young people and families in the lead up to or following the death of somebody special to them. Our 1:1 and peer group support enables young people to explore and understand the process of death, dying and grief in a safe, age appropriate environment.

Our work supports immediate emotional health needs and helps build resilience, confidence and the ability for them to go on to be the best versions of themselves, not held back by past experiences.

My name is Rhian Kenny and I have the privilege of being a volunteer with Sandy Bear. I am a retired headteacher (or as I like to say rewiring!) and during my time in school I was lucky to attend awareness training days with Sandy Bear. These two days literally changed my life personally and professionally. In school we were able to access specific help, advice and support for families at a time when the world around them had literally crashed. When a tragic death occurred in my own family I was able to sign post my relative on how to access support. I have seen first hand the impact being able to grieve positively can have on young people and their families. I made a promise to myself that when I retired I would volunteer for Sandy Bear.

In May I had an "I can do that moment" when watching the London Marathon which was a week before my 60th birthday and entered, unbeknown to my husband! I am not a runner but am determined to do my utmost to complete this challenge for Sandy Bear.

I understand how financially challenging times are so any donation no matter how small would be gratefully accepted. Your donations can go so far in providing practical items to support children, young people and their families with memory boxes, memory jars, teddies as well as practical one to one and group support sessions.

Thank you so much for reading my story