Sitting on a nearby bench, Simon Haycock shared the ongoing anguish caused by the loss of his 16-year-old son, highlighting the small yet significant details that continue to haunt him.
Reflecting on the past, Simon expressed the void left by his son’s absence, particularly missing the routine phone calls and sudden silence that followed, emphasizing the adjustment to this new reality.
His son had been enjoying post-GCSE celebrations with friends at Ulley Country Park in Rotherham when the tragic incident occurred. Despite the innocent intention of jumping into the reservoir from a stone bridge on a sunny day in May, the repercussions of that impulsive decision have been profound for his family.
Sam’s untimely death spurred Simon into action, leading him on a tireless mission to raise awareness about water safety, especially targeting school children with the message of the devastating consequences of reckless behavior near open water.
As the fifth anniversary of his son’s passing approached, Simon was struck by the alarming number of drowning incidents, particularly during the recent heatwave. Feeling a sense of urgency, he emphasized the crucial need for immediate government intervention to address what has been labeled a ‘national emergency’ by campaigners.
Simon’s dedication to preventing further tragedies is evident in his efforts to enhance safety measures at the site where his son lost his life, including installing anti-climb devices and safety equipment, as well as spreading awareness through educational initiatives.
Through the establishment of Sam’s Army’s Mission 1 Life and the production of a water safety video, the family aims to extend their message to a wider audience, emphasizing the importance of caution and vigilance around water bodies.
Simon’s poignant recount of the day that changed his life forever serves as a solemn reminder of the far-reaching impact of water-related accidents, not only on the victims and their families but also on the dedicated emergency responders who witness the tragic aftermath.
As he continues his advocacy work, Simon remains resolute in his mission to prevent further tragedies and ensure that the memory of his son, Sam, lives on as a symbol of the importance of water safety awareness.