CHSA donates £10,000 to Grief Encounter

Grief Encounter was named the CHSA’s nominated charity in 2019. Following this year’s donation the total sum raised for Grief Encounter is now £60,000. 

Grief Encounter supports grieving children, young people and their families to find hope, healing and build resilience following the death of someone close. The charity relies entirely on voluntary gifts. 

Andy Watts, Head of Partnerships at Grief Encounter said: “Over the past year, we’ve seen a significant rise in grieving families reaching out for help. As awareness grows, so does demand. To meet this urgent need, we have to raise £3 million this year to continue providing tailored, life‑changing support. We are entirely reliant on the generosity of our supporters and loyal partners like the CHSAplay an invaluable role in making our work possible.

“In the past year alone, thanks to donations like this, 2,263 people received support from Grief Encounter, 961 young people accessed therapy and over 120 families attended therapeutic events including residential weekends and our Forever Night memory-making event. As a result of this amazing contribution over 90% of children and young people reported improved resilience and wellbeing.”

One child in every UK classroom will experience the death of someone close by the time they reach 16 years old. Studies have shown bereaved children can face long-term social and emotional difficulties if they do not receive the right support at the right time, following the death of someone close.

David Garcia, Vice President and Treasurer of the CHSA and the driving force behind the gala ball said: “We are proud our members come together to raise such a significant sum for this amazing charity. 

“Grief Encounter has put the money we have raised over the years to very good use. We are always delighted to hear the individual stories of the young people who, because of Grief Encounter’s work, are more resilient and able to grieve their loss.”

The sponsors of the 2026 Gala Ball made a significant contribution. They were: SC Johnson, Kimberly-Clark, Essity, Metsa Tissue, Bio Productions and Vow Wholesale.

For more information, visit​ www.chsa.co.uk

https://www.griefencounter.org.uk/