What We Offer

Recommendations from National Children’s Bureau literature review (Ribben’s McCarthy, J 2005) suggest that services and opportunities are needed for support, based on a variety of activities, ranging from the provision of a single phone contact through individual or family based interventions, to peer group support.

A dedicated phone line is available to accept referrals from health, social services and education as well as self referrals from families and young people. Following a referral all families or referrer will be contacted and offered support and advice.

Children and young people will then be offered a home visit by a trained volunteer and qualified professional. This allows all members of the family to tell their story and how the death has affected them. The workers can assess the level of knowledge and understanding and give information about the service. The family can then decide if they wish to continue.

If the child or young person does wish to continue then two further home visits will be offered which allows for preparation for the group activities and builds up a trusting relationship between the family and the workers.

Using a variety of creative activities, which includes outdoor activities and challenges, drama, art, music and crafts, the group activities provide a safe environment in which children, young people and their parents, together and separately, can express their thoughts and feelings, ask questions, overcome any misunderstandings and encourage communication. By meeting others the children and young people realize they are not alone in their experience.

Resources are also available for borrowing by young people, families and professionals.