Bereavement Support for Children and Parents
Grief is a very personal experience. Everyone will grieve differently.
Children’s responses will vary and a lack of a reaction does not mean that they do not care. Initially the reality of the situation may take time to ‘sink in’, and older children can feel that they have to be seen to be coping as a sign of maturity. Allow children to express their emotions and feelings and do not be afraid to share your own feelings of sadness if you have any.
Although it can be difficult, it is better to answer questions truthfully. If you are faced with a difficult question, rather than answering straight away, ask the child what they think. Children may need a long time to process the information and their feelings and it is important to remember that grief is for life and the loss will always be with them.
Please find below links to organisations that can offer support and advice for children and/or adults who are grieving.
Child Bereavement UK
Phone: 0800 02 888 40
Winston’s Wish
Phone: 08088 020 021
Grief Encounter
Phone: 0808 802 0111
Cruse Bereavement Support
Phone: 0808 808 1677