Philippa and Simon - Their Fundraising Story
A Journey of Gratitude: Philippa and Simon Take on the Camino for The Hamlet. For more than 26 years, The Hamlet Charity has been a constant source of support, care, and community for Philippa and Simon and their son, Oliver.
From his early days attending a preschool group at Ella Road, through daycare and school holiday clubs, and later into adult services, Oliver’s journey with The Hamlet has been one filled with opportunity, growth, and belonging. What began as support for a young child grew into something much more — a lifeline for the whole family.
Throughout the years, The Hamlet has provided a safe, nurturing environment where Oliver could enjoy a wide range of activities and experiences. From cooking — one of his favourite activities — to simply relaxing and feeling at ease, Oliver has always been supported by a team described by his family as “professional, caring, and respectful.”
But the impact has extended far beyond activities. For Philippa and Simon, The Hamlet offered peace of mind, knowing Oliver was in safe hands meant they could “switch off once he went through those double doors,” allowing them to spend quality time with their other children and recharge as a family.
There have also been moments where that support has meant everything. In 2017, when Oliver’s grandfather passed away, two members of staff ensured he could attend the funeral, travelling with him and supporting him throughout the service — a gesture the family will never forget.
Now, as Oliver approaches his 29th birthday and prepares for a new chapter, Philippa and Simon have taken time to reflect on their own journey as a family — one filled with challenges, resilience, and gratitude.
To mark this transition, and as they both turn 60 this year, they are setting out on a deeply personal challenge: walking the final 100km of the Camino de Santiago in northern Spain.
Over 12 days, they will walk approximately 14 kilometres each day, staying in different hostels along the way. While they know it won’t be easy — especially with the natural aches and challenges that come with getting older — they are embracing the experience as an opportunity to reconnect with themselves, with each other, and with loved ones.
This pilgrimage is something they have long dreamed of doing. But this time, it carries an even greater purpose.
They are fundraising for The Hamlet Charity — a charity close to their hearts — to help ensure other families can access the same life-changing support they have received.
As they put it, this journey represents leaving one chapter behind and stepping into the next, with gratitude for the past 29 years and hope for the future of other young people with additional needs.
They hope their story will inspire others:
to make time for what matters,
to try something new,
and to make a difference where they can.
Their message is simple but powerful:
“Try not to say, ‘I can’t be bothered. Be bothered. Make an effort. Enjoy life. Have fun. Be positive. Be proactive. Make a difference — but also make time for yourself.”
And as they prepare for the road ahead, one thing is certain — alongside determination and purpose, they’ll also be packing plenty of foot care supplies for the journey!
Every step they take is not only a personal milestone, but a way of supporting other families and helping The Hamlet continue its vital work.
If you feel inspired by their journey, please support Simon and Philippa on their journey and help us continue making a difference through their JustGiving page: Philippa and Simon Meredith JustGiving Page
