The Patron, Trustees and staff of Providence Row are deeply saddened to share news of the passing of Simon Bartley OBE, our former Chairman and Trustee, whose dedication to this organisation spanned more than two decades.
Simon first became involved with Providence Row in 1989, bringing his expertise in construction and engineering to help oversee major building works including our move from Crispin Street to The Dellow Centre. He became Chairman in 1993, a role he held until 2014, guiding the charity through a period of significant change and securing its long-term financial stability.
A Chartered Engineer by profession, he became Chairman of the family electrical business, C J Bartley & Co., started in 1921 by his grandfather. Simon was appointed into the role of Chief Executive of UK Skills in 2007 and, from 2011 until 2015, President of WorldSkills International. His lifelong commitment to public service was recognised with an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours. He was a committed Catholic, serving with the Catholic Children's Society and the Catholic Fund for Homeless and Destitute People throughout his life.
When asked about his proudest moments at Providence Row, Simon's answer was characteristically straightforward: "My pride is in the ability of the staff and the volunteers to actually make a difference to the lives of the people that we are set up to help."
That pride was mutual. We are profoundly grateful for everything he contributed. Our thoughts are with his family and all who loved him. May he Rest in Peace.
The funeral mass takes place on Wednesday 17th June 2026, 2.00pm at the Jesuit Church of Immaculate Conception (Farm Street), 114 Mount Street, Mayfair WIK 3AH.
