
Losing someone important to us can be emotionally devastating - whether that be a family member or friend.
It is natural to go through a range of physical and emotional processes as we gradually come to terms with the loss.
Grief doesn’t have a timeline. Just take one step at a time.
All children will have questions about the effects of the virus but for children who have had someone important die or have a member of their family who is ill, this anxiety is likely to be heightened.
If you would like more information on how to reassure children and young people who are worried about the effect of this virus on their family, please visit the organisations supporting bereavement and grief during the coronavirus pandemic below:
Wandsworth Bereavement Service for Children and Young People provides one to one bereavement counselling for parents/carers, children and young people. This service is for residents who live in the borough of Wandsworth, or for those attending schools or local services in the borough.
The service can be used by anyone who:
- has been bereaved;
- has experienced other major losses; or
- is facing an anticipated death.
Please call 020 7223 3178, email children@wandsworthbereavement.org.uk or visit the website www.wandsworthbereavement.org.uk for further information. Agencies can refer children and young people into the service.
Wandsworth's Schools and Community Psychology Service (SCPS) have infographics, resources and links:
National organisations offering support.
Winstons Wish - Coronavirus bereavement support
Cruse - coronavirus bereavement and grief
Supporting bereaved children from Winston's Wish
Telling a child someone is seriously ill from Winston's Wish
Telling a child someone has died from Coronavirus from Winston's Wish
Coronavirus video for parents on supporting children from Child Bereavement UK
How schools can support pupils from Winston's Wish
Information for education professionals supporting pupils during the coronavirus pandemic from Child Bereavement UK
National organisations offering information for children, young people and adults additional needs and/or learning difficulties.
National Autistic Society - bereavement information
Mencap - grief support for young people with learning difficulties
Downs Syndrome Association - bereavement factsheet
MIND - Useful links to supporting organisations
Macmillan - Easy read guide about attending a funeral
Can’t find what you are looking for? Contact us:
thrivewandsworth@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk
020 8871 7789