It is estimated that each year 1 in 29 pupils aged 5-16 years is bereaved of a parent or sibling and that approximately 112 children are bereaved of a parent every day. The recent pandemic in addition to conflicts around the world has meant that children and young people are much more aware of the sadness and emotion around death. Schools play an important role in supporting both pupils and their families whenever a bereavement occurs and the diocese is able to provide bespoke support to schools when a need arises. This can range from training for staff supporting pupils to immediate direct support when a sudden death affecting the school community occurs.
Helpful resources for supporting bereaved children
- Supporting bereaved pupils - guidance for staff
- Supporting bereaved pupils - guidence for parents and carers.
- Bereavement - initial actions to consider
- How schools can help support bereaved children
- List of helpful organisations
- Remembering those who have died
- Winston’s Wish has produced guidance on bereavement training for schools
- Cruse Bereavement Care has produced some tips about talking to children among their wider resources about grief.
Who to contact
If you need to speak with someone directly regarding any concerns related to bereavement and supporting children, young people and their families, please email David Williams or call: 07736 903867.