There was plenty of laughter, smiling faces and unforgettable moments as Simon Says Child Bereavement Support celebrated its 25th anniversary with a special Family Fun Day at Hursley Sports & Social Club in July.
The event brought together bereaved children and young people and their families from across Hampshire who have been part of the Simon Says community over the years. While the day marked an important milestone for the charity, it was also an opportunity for families to spend quality time together, make happy memories and enjoy a welcome break from the everyday challenges that grief can bring.
At Simon Says, we know that grief doesn’t disappear for a day, but moments of joy, connection and laughter can make a real differenc
e. Seeing children playing freely, parents relaxing together and families sharing smiles reminded us why creating these opportunities is such an important part of supporting bereaved families.
A day full of fun 
From giant slides and bouncy castles to circus skills, bubbles, music and magic, there was something to make everyone smile. Families enjoyed spending time together, trying new activities and sharing moments of laughter. The hot air balloon was a real talking point, with children and adults alike enjoying the chance to get close to something so unusual.
To mark our silver anniversary, every child received a special Simon Says 25th Anniversary teddy bear to take home – a keepsake to remember a d
ay filled with happiness, friendship and celebration.
Our founder, Sally Stanley, also announced the raffle winners and reflected on the charity’s incredible journey over the past 25 years. She thanked everyone who has helped shape Simon Says into the organisation it is today and reaffirmed our commitment to continuing to walk alongside bereaved children, young people and their families for many years to come.
Thank you to everyone who made the day possible
Events like this simply couldn’t happen without the generosity of our community.
A huge thank you goes to our incredible volunteers, whose enthusiasm, kindness and hard work helped create such a welcoming and enjoyable day for every family.
We’re also incredibly grateful to:
- Hopscotch Nursery Group, our event sponsor, for supporting the day and running a wonderful memory tile activity that gave children a creative way to remember someone special.
- FB The Wholesaler, whose sponsorship helped make the event possible.
- Atmosphere Balloons, for donating an unforgettable hot air balloon ride for one lucky family.
- Hursley Sports & Social Club, for providing such a fantastic venue for our celebration.
- Every performer, activity provider and supporter who helped make the day such a success.
Looking ahead
Celebrating 25 years is a wonderful achievement, but our focus remains firmly on the future.
Every year, Simon Says supports bereaved children, young people and their families across Hampshire, helping them understand their grief, build resilience and know they are not alone.
Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate this special milestone. The day was a reminder that, even in the midst of grief, moments of joy, connection and hope are possible and that’s something we’ll continue to create for bereaved children, young people and families for many years to come.
Every child deserves the support and space to grieve in their own way, and we’re honoured to be there when it matters most.
