Loss, Change and Bereavement: Supporting Children and Young People
It is important to talk to children and young people as honestly as possible about loss, change or bereavement, at a level they understand to reduce their anxiety and worry, and to help them feel safe, heard and connected to the adults they trust.
It is common to feel stuck or worried about what to say and how to say it when it comes to talking about illness and bereavement with children. It is important we talk openly and truthfully, being mindful of a child’s developmental stage.
There is a helpful information sheet on Child Bereavement UK website explaining children’s understanding of loss at different ages and offering scripts and guidance on what we can say to help them. Please click here to view website.
Bereavement Support
There are many other helpful websites and resources, not specific to COVID-19, which offer support for children, young people and their families which you might find helpful. Some key pages have been highlighted below which you might find useful.
Archie’s Child Bereavement Service – Grampian
Cruse Bereavement Care Scotland
Child Mind Institute – helping children to cope with grief
Marie Curie – supporting children and young people when someone dies
Online resources for schools | Child Bereavement UK
Home SUPPORTING BEREAVED CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE – Grief Encounter
