Manchester charity volunteer wins Award for Innovation

Local volunteer Phillippa Crombleholme from Worsley has been named as the winner of an Award for Innovation by the pregnancy and baby loss charity Sands.

Sands CEO, Clea Harmer and Volunteering Development Lead Louise Fleming presented winners with an engraved trophy and a certificate signed by Clea and Sands Director of Volunteering and Bereavement Support, Jen Coates.

Phillippa is a Manchester Sands volunteer and was recognised for her fundraising for Sands and inspiring people to knit and crochet, leading to the creation of over 300 blankets for Sands memory boxes. Phillipa has raised in excess of £65,000 for Sands since the loss of her son Charlie in 2015. With the support of her Centrica colleagues she has inspired people across the world to fundraise for the charity.

Phillippa Crombleholme said: “When our son Charlie passed away, the support we received from Sands was truly invaluable—not only emotionally, but also through the practical guidance provided. To honour Charlie’s memory, I took part in my first Sands walk six years ago, walking alone. That solo step marked the beginning of a powerful journey.

“This past year, I was incredibly moved to be joined by nearly 13,000 people from around the world. Along the way, we formed the Centrica Sands Group—a community of colleagues who have also experienced baby loss. Many have used their volunteering hours to create beautiful baby blankets for memory boxes, offering comfort to families during their most difficult moments.

“We’re fortunate to work for a company that genuinely values and supports volunteering. Colleagues often share how the Sands walks have inspired them to improve their physical health, support their mental wellbeing, and connect with a cause that truly matters. Together, we’re raising awareness, vital funds, and most importantly letting families know they are not alone.”

Sands’ Chief Executive Clea Harmer said: “Volunteers are at the heart of our community and so much of the work we do to save babies’ lives and support bereaved families would not be possible without their commitment and dedication. Phillippa has been such an important ambassador for Sands by sharing her story and inspiring others, and this shone through in her nomination.”

“Thank you to everyone who nominated a Sands Volunteer for an award. We had so many amazing nominations come through, from all across the UK. We are always keen to hear from more people who would like to give their time to support our work so if you’ve been inspired by Phillippa, we’d love to hear from you.”

Abi Robins – Directo of Responsible Business at Centrica said: “Phillippa has shown immense commitment to raising awareness of Sands’ work. Many colleagues have opened up about their experiences with baby loss, whether personal or involving a close friend or family member.

“By being such a fantastic ambassador for Sands, working so hard, and being brave enough to share her story, she has inspired colleagues to knit blankets for memory boxes, raised vital funds that will help other bereaved families receive the best possible care and support, and help Sands create a world where fewer babies die.”

This year, Sands named two awards after Sands’ Patrons, Bel Mooney and Hazelanne Lewis. Bel and Hazelanne, along with a small group of fellow bereaved parents, founded Sands over 45 years ago. Thanks to their dedication and vision, Sands has gone on to grow to become the organisation it is today, doing incredible work that continues to make an impact across all our communities.

The Bel Mooney Award for Raising Awareness and the Hazelanne Lewis Award for Leadership will ensure we continue to honour their legacy, by recognising the contributions of Sands’ volunteers. Find out more about volunteering with Sands at http://www.sands.org.uk/volunteering

Anyone affected by pregnancy or baby loss who needs the support of Sands can find more information at http://www.sands.org.uk/support