Bereavement, Loss and Grief

In this page you will find a comprehensive package of information, resources and guidance aimed to enhance the support you offer to children, young people, families and colleagues who have, or are experiencing, bereavement or loss. To get the best from these resources we advise that you take some time to familiarise yourselves with the information, make relevant documents visible and readily available to children, young people and families and display posters in your establishment.

Growing Up Grieving in Scotland

The Growing Up Grieving Project has engaged with those with lived experience of childhood bereavement as well as those with a role in supporting bereaved children and young people in Scotland. The report sets out a route map to enable all children and young people to: prepare for a bereavement, develop the necessary skills to cope with their grief, and access the right support when they need it, at all three stages of a bereavement – before, at the time, and after. The report concludes with seven recommendations for the Scottish Government to act upon to improve Scotland’s approach to childhood bereavement. Click on the picture to read the report.

A Bereavement Charter for Children and Adults in Scotland

The Bereavement Charter was developed to improve understanding and support for those
experiencing grief and bereavement in Scotland. It illustrates how we can work together to ensure
those who are bereaved find empathy and support in all aspects of their life. It highlights the
importance of creating a culture of care, support and compassion. Whilst accepting that every death
is unique and that the way we each come to terms with a death is individual, the Charter and
Guidance attempts to describe bereavement support at its best. Good bereavement care is a fundamental human right and health, education and social care professionals have a key role to play. As an organisation or educational setting you can promote improved bereavement care by applying for the Charter.

For more information visit https://scottishcare.org/bereavement/

A Community Approach to Supporting Bereavement, Loss and Grief: Guidance for Settings and Organisations Supporting Children, Young People and Families

In this comprehensive guidance you will find information relating to bereavement theories, impact of childhood bereavement, how children understand death at different ages, the role of practitioners and how you can support bereaved children and young people. You will also find sector specific resources, books, information on developing a bereavement policy and local and national support organisations. Please click on the relevant tab below to find comprehensive information, advice and resources: