Sandy Bear started out as a Pembrokeshire based child bereavement service within the NHS in 1996 and it supported around 60 children and young people a year. By 2009 that figure had risen upward to 158 per year. With additional support from Welsh Government via local authorities.

Sadly, in 2016, with growing financial constraints to statutory provision, the service was decommissioned despite it still being very much needed. However all was not lost as two co-founders (and clinical leads) started working remotely. 

In 2017, a trustee board was established and on 10th June 2018, two years after the service had stopped, Sandy Bear children’s bereavement charity was formed. Later came the support of facilities and space with Pembrokeshire Frame, and in May 2019, we moved into the current Sandy Bear HQ in Milford Haven

They now support over 200 children and young people each year with numbers growing. Sandy Bear also support their parents/carers/guardians and other professionals involved in their lives.

With their roots in Pembrokeshire and West Wales they have ambitious plans to ensure that no matter where in Wales a child or young person resides, or whatever their circumstances, they should have access to appropriate and timely bereavement support.

If you are interested in helping this great cause simply visit their website to donate or even enquire about volunteering. Also be sure to show your support for this great cause at the Family Fun Day on Saturday 8th June at Scolton Manor Haverfordwest. 

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