LEE Barnett has been appointed Sandy Bear’s Chief Executive Officer at an exciting time for the charity to support the growing need of bereavement services for children and young people in Pembrokeshire.

Lee will be further developing the charity by building relationships with partners, supporters and funders to enhance and expand the vital work of Sandy Bear.

Lee brings with him experience of working within statutory and voluntary sector organisations and has a passion of supporting people, projects and organisations.

As the charity’s first CEO, Lee has the important challenge of working with Sandy Bear to develop sustainable approaches to ensure they continue to thrive and can support beneficiaries within their current geographic area of Pembrokeshire - and to further the charity’s aim of providing an all-Wales service over the coming years.

The role of CEO has been funded by a number of projects, including an award from Postcode Community Trust. Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, Sandy Bear are part of a pilot project to allow organisations to address the needs they feel are relevant and urgent. All organisations funded by this project support people’s mental health and wellbeing. This award has also funded disability support within the workplace and other vital support functions for families.

Players of People’s Postcode Lottery have now raised over £1.1 billion to support thousands of charities and local good causes.

Lee says:“I am really excited about the role and challenge ahead. The work Sandy Bear does across Pembrokeshire and its pilot projects within Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire are inspirational and life changing for our beneficiaries. Working closely with our amazing volunteers, staff and supporters, we hope that our vision where all children and young people, wherever they live in Wales can access our services and support.”