We provide bereavement support to any child or young person, regardless of previous hospice involvement or the cause of death.
Initially we offer a bereavement assessment to the whole family, including the parent/guardian, as we are aware that a significant death will impact everyone in the family. Following an assessment, we mutually agree on what support would be best in each family's circumstances. The options for support are: advice, information, telephone support, one to one, family group or a combination. We use talking or creative therapies which enabls people to express their thoughts and feelings whilst using different creative mediums, such as art, storytelling, puppets and toys.
We also run STARS (Sharing, Talking and Remembering Someone Special). STARS is a unique grief support programme for young families which we facilitate several times a year. The programme helps children, young people and their families to cope with the death of a parent or special person in their lives.
We aim to provide a safe, supportive environment where children and adults can meet and share their experiences and remember the person who has died through creative activities, alongside making friends.
We recommend attendance around four months after the death.
We also offer advice, information, consultation and training to schools and other agencies or professionals involved with supporting bereaved children and families.
Without the help and generosity of our fundraisers and donors we wouldn't be able to offer our Bereavement Support to the local children and families who need it. We offer a number of ways that people can donate in memory of a loved one to help us to continue this support.