Advice for Children
Lord-Brown & Harty
Funeral Directors
Talking to Children About Death
A Guide
Discussing death with children is a delicate and challenging task, but it is essential to address their questions and concerns with sensitivity and care. Here are some guidelines and resources to help you navigate this difficult conversation:
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Be Honest and Age-Appropriate
When discussing death with children, it’s important to be honest and provide information that is appropriate for their age and level of understanding. Use simple and concrete language that they can comprehend and avoid using euphemisms or confusing explanations.
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Encourage Expression of Feelings
Create a safe space for children to express their emotions about death. Encourage them to ask questions and share their thoughts and feelings openly. Let them know that it’s okay to feel sad, angry, confused, or any other emotion they may be experiencing.
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Listen and Validate
Listen attentively to what children have to say and validate their feelings. Reassure them that their emotions are normal and that it’s okay to feel sad or upset. Avoid dismissing or minimising their feelings and let them know that you are there to support them.
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Provide Reassurance
Reassure children that they are loved and cared for, and that they are not alone in their grief. Offer comfort and support and let them know that it’s okay to seek help from trusted adults if they need it.
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Use Books and Resources
There are many books and resources available to help children understand and cope with death. Reading books together or watching age-appropriate videos can provide a helpful starting point for discussions about death and grief.
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Seek Professional Support
If children are struggling to cope with the death of a loved one, or if you feel overwhelmed in discussing death with them, consider seeking support from a professional counsellor or therapist. Counselling services can provide children with a safe and supportive environment to explore their feelings and learn coping strategies.
Resources for Support
In the UK, several counselling and support services are available to families and children dealing with death and grief. Here are some organisations that offer support and resources:
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Child Bereavement UK
Child Bereavement UK offers support to families and children who have experienced the loss of a loved one. They provide counselling services, support groups, and resources to help children and families cope with grief and bereavement.
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Winston’s Wish
Winston’s Wish is a leading childhood bereavement charity in the UK. They offer practical support and guidance to children, young people, and families coping with the death of a parent or sibling. Their website provides a wealth of resources, including information packs, videos, and online support.
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Cruse Bereavement Care
Cruse Bereavement Care offers support and counselling to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one. They have a dedicated service for children and young people, providing counselling and support groups tailored to their needs.
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Samaritans
Samaritans offers emotional support to anyone in distress, including children and young people. They provide a confidential helpline that is available 24/7, allowing children to talk to trained volunteers about their feelings and concerns.
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2wish Cymru
2wish offer immediate support after the sudden and unexpected death of a child or young person aged 25 and under. With consent, details are passed on to 2wish, usually from the hospital or police and, once the referral has been received, contact will be made with 24-48 hours by one of our Immediate Support Coordinators.
Once initial contact has been made, the Immediate Support Coordinator will arrange a home visit as soon as possible. Home visits and ongoing telephone support will continue for as long as the family and the Immediate Support Coordinator feel it is appropriate and beneficial.
Conclusion
Remember that it’s okay to seek help and support when discussing death with children. By providing them with honest information, emotional support, and access to resources, you can help them navigate the difficult journey of grief and loss. At Lord-Brown & Harty, we are here to support you every step of the way.