Welcome To Our October Newsletter

We’re excited to bring you the second edition of the SimPal monthly newsletter. As summer winds down and autumn rolls in, we’ve seen another massive wave of activity. Demand for our services is increasing, but so is our support. Together, we’re making a tangible impact.

From The Frontline

The numbers

In September, we distributed:

• 78 phones
• 100 SIM cards
• 8 laptops

We’re now seeing a shift in demand: while SIM availability has improved, devices are becoming increasingly scarce. Thankfully, we’ve opened up promising supply lines, but of course, this all depends on funding.

AI search is making a big difference, helping more people discover SimPal faster than ever. As digital poverty deepens, our work becomes even more vital.

A simple phone. A powerful connection

Real Stories, Real Impact

Helping a Disabled Woman Stay Independent

We received a referral for a woman in London with multiple disabilities. Her eight-year-old phone broke, cutting her off from healthcare professionals, support staff, and vital services. Without a replacement, she cannot manage her care, pay bills, or even plan travel. A phone isn’t just a tool; for her, it’s essential to independence.

Supporting a Young Boy with Cancer

A parent wrote in asking for help for their son, who is undergoing treatment for multiple severe conditions, including leukaemia. A mobile phone and SIM would help them stay in touch with medical teams, school, and family, especially during extended hospital stays. For this family, facing hardship and illness, connection brings hope and stability.

Nazar’s Story – From Homelessness to Hope

Nazar, recently granted refugee status, has faced homelessness and now lives in emergency accommodation. His phone broke, leaving him disconnected from his housing officer and support services. Without it, he risks slipping through the cracks again. A working device can be the turning point in his journey to stability and integration.

Supporter Spotlight

Our work is ever-evolving, and we are unique in that we deal with individual applications, while also helping larger organisations facilitate individual support.  The landscape is changing, and we are seeing:

• Increased demand from larger organisations
• More complex needs from individuals
• Greater interest from partners who want to integrate SimPal support into their corporate responsibility strategies

We’ve had a rise in direct enquiries from the NHS, Citizens Advice, and other major charities. A surge in organisation-led referrals equates to approximately 95% of all cases. 

Partner Pulse

Partnering with 1823 Group

Last month, Chris gave a presentation to 31 IT managers from 1823 Group and their clients. This powerful event created new opportunities for tech partnerships, increasing our capacity to source and distribute devices to those in need.

We’re working on a professional video story about SimPal with the 1823 Group to help explain our journey – this will highlight how donated phones and related items can transform lives and give new meaning to tech recycling.

The Good Things Foundation

We’re thrilled to strengthen ties with the Good Things Foundation, which will now refer individuals they can’t personally support to SimPal. This partnership builds capacity to handle more demand, more effectively together.  It’s a great demonstration of partnership working to meet the demand and help people.

Their recent report highlights the vital importance of digital access to the future success and equity of the NHS.   Read the full article.

In the News:

Keir Starmer has announced a national NHS Online Hospital. While many see this as a tremendous and necessary development, it is a shift that could widen the digital divide for those without access. As the system moves online, having a phone or data becomes a medical necessity.
Read the NHS announcement.

Inside SimPal

Behind the Scenes

It’s been a busy time for our team, and we have been fortunate to have continued support from them, even as life gets busy during the peak holiday period.  We are gearing up for our first AGM later this month.  A huge thanks to the team for everything they do!

Meet the SimPal Team

Behind SimPal’s powerful mission to keep people connected is a passionate and dedicated team of professionals, each bringing unique skills, heart, and energy to the cause.

Chris Lewis – COO / Trustee

As co-founder of SimPal, Chris drives the organisation’s vision and day-to-day operations. A cancer survivor and seasoned entrepreneur, he brings unmatched dedication to ensuring no one is isolated due to a lack of connection.

Avril Chester – Patron

Avril is an award-winning tech innovator, author, and cancer advocate. As Patron of SimPal, she lends her voice, expertise, and networks to elevate the impact of our mission.

Megan Simpson – Trustee

Megan is a digital health leader with a passion for inclusion and innovation. With a strong background in healthcare transformation and equity, she brings valuable insight to SimPal’s mission. As a Trustee, Megan helps guide our strategy to ensure our services meet the real needs of those we support.

Zac Toumazi – Corporate Affairs/Trustee

Zac offers strategic insight and expertise in corporate relationships. A trusted Trustee, he helps shape SimPal’s governance and partnerships, making sure we grow responsibly and sustainably.

Lee Townsend – Brand Ambassador

Lee is a professional boxer and a passionate advocate for inclusion. As a SimPal Brand Ambassador, he’s using his platform to raise awareness and share the transformative power of connection.

Jason Boyd – Website and Tech Manager

Jason brings technical know-how to the team, maintaining our website and digital infrastructure. His work ensures our services remain accessible and efficient behind the scenes.

Frances Fletcher – Social Media Manager

Frances energises our online presence with creative, meaningful content across platforms. She’s instrumental in growing SimPal’s digital community and increasing visibility for our work.

Sheila Docker – Brand Ambassador

Sheila brings warmth, wisdom, and lived experience to her ambassador role. Her advocacy and outreach help us stay grounded in the real-world impact of our work.

Christina Lattimer – Fundraising and Communications Manager

With a strong background in leadership and social impact, Christina leads our fundraising and outreach efforts. She ensures SimPal’s message reaches the right people and turns awareness into action.

What’s Next

We’re very excited to be in discussions about a joint initiative for grant funding with local NHS and local authority partners, aiming to help meet the long-needed demand for people to have access to technology for essential services.  We believe this could establish a blueprint to support digital users.   Stay tuned as this progresses. 

Getting Involved 

Here’s How You Can Help:

• Donate an old phone – We’ll wipe it, recycle it, and give it new life.
• Make a one-off or monthly donation – Every £10 helps keep someone connected.
• Become a Partner – Contact us to explore a potential partnership.
• Spread the word – Forward this newsletter or share our campaign on social media.
• Volunteer with us – Tech skills welcome but not essential. Enthusiasm matters most.
• Email us: chris@yoursimpal.com