Telephone Helpline Volunteer

Simon Says is a child bereavement charity supporting children and young people across Hampshire when they have been bereaved of someone important to them. 

Could you lend a listening ear once a week?

We're looking for compassionate volunteers to join our Helpline team, supporting adults who are reaching out on behalf of a bereaved child or young person. Just being available one day a week, from home, can make a world of difference to a family navigating grief. We're not an emergency service, so you'll have time to listen, understand, and offer thoughtful support - with the chance to follow up.

Full training is provided, and you'll be part of a warm, supportive community.

If you're empathetic, a good listener, and want to help families support their children, we'd love to hear from you.

About the organisation

Simon Stanley was a 37 year-old teacher from Southampton when he died from cancer. His wife Sally found there was no bereavement support locally for their two small children. Their experiences have led to the establishment of “Simon Says” as a registered charity.

Our 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, changing it’s status to CIO in 2021.

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Skills

• Able to communicate clearly and sensitively, comfortable hearing about grief.
• Able to listen actively and provide compassionate support.
• Sensitive to the emotional needs of grieving families