• Volunteer's Name: Claire Maxwell
• Current role: Chair/Befriender/Hospital Liaison at Blackpool and Preston Sands
• Details of previous role(s)/activities: Befriender

“Claire stepped into the role of Chair following previous Chair’s departure – she really has developed and encouraged the committee to be able to continue what they do. Claire has been fab stepping in as Chair, despite a long period of illness, she’s kept the group going. She organises lots of events and is very understanding of the changes Sands are implementing (NFM). She’s great at communicating with me and always open to discussion and advice.” - says Sheryl McMahon, North West Network Coordinator, Sands

Note from Claire:

“When we lost our baby boy I never thought we would get our lives back, never thought we would have fun or even smile again. Sands brought hope to me. Gave me a place where I could talk openly and honestly to people who really 'got It'. Then one of my neighbours lost their baby too. I found myself pulled towards them. To help in any way I could. To sit and hold her while she broke. This was when I realised that Sands was a massive part of me and I would always be a part of Sands. 

Finding the words......sometimes there are none. But a hand to hold, a listening ear and understanding from someone who's been there. 

When the time is right I always try to let families know that there is hope. You have to grieve and remember your baby in your way, what's right for you. But once your ready to find your new path whatever that may be, you will find it and I promise, that in time, you will smile again.”

Sands is marking its 40th anniversary this year and we would like to say thank you for the incredible support and contribution that our dedicated volunteers make across the UK to support bereaved parents and anyone affected by the death of a baby. 

We will host an awards ceremony during the Sands 40th Anniversary Conference to celebrate the wide range of volunteering involvement in Sands and acknowledge 40 volunteers for their dedication and commitment. 

Volunteer nominations for 2018 are open and we invite you to nominate individuals or teams of volunteers. Please contact lorna.delayahu@sands.org.uk to find out more and to make your nomination.