It is important that Sands Groups are run in a way that is democratic and that the responsibilities are shared.

Usually there is a committee of at least 3 people, being the chair, secretary and treasurer. There will often be other members who are interested in helping the group to run who would also form part of the committee. There are many other roles which can be taken such as fundraiser, librarian, hospital liaison and organiser for remembrance services. This committee will hold regular business meetings for making decisions about what happens within the group.

At least one member of the Sands Group should be a befriender whose role is to provide support to parents. This can be by telephone, meeting face to face or in support meetings. It is important that all befrienders have been through the Befriender Training Programme

The chair, secretary, treasurer, all committee members and befrienders must be individual paid members of Sands

Sands Groups are all part of the Charity as a whole and as such must comply with the terms of the Sands Group Constitution. This defines the aims and purpose of the Charity as well as identifying the responsibilities of the Group

All Groups must register with head office before they are permitted to use the Sands name, logo and charity registration number.

All Groups must hold a bank account, preferably with Unity Trust Bank and with two signatories. They are required to keep accounts and submit an annual financial return to head office. This forms an important part of Sands statutory audit which we are legally required to complete.