Many parents and adults find death a difficult subject to explain to children. What often helps children is the opportunity to say goodbye, and this is difficult if they have been unable to visit their loved one when they were ill, or even attend their funeral.

Children may be left with many uncertainties, fears and difficult issues to cope with and often find these very hard to talk about, especially to another close family member or friend. Often, not acknowledging children are involved and what is going on, is a common way families struggle to cope, but it is important that they have the opportunity to say goodbye too.

We have added some resources on this page: Someone Special To Me Video. This have been created to help you and your children in bereavement during this difficult time.

We know that dealing with intense emotions like illness, death and bereavement, can be difficult for teenagers and young people. Working through feelings may seem to be a slower process, so we have produced a short video which helps to explain the development of the adolescent brain.

If you would like to discuss any issues about talking to children about death and dying, our dedicated Child & Family Support team of counsellors and psychologists can help. We will work with parents and guardians alike, helping you to understand your own fears and prepare you to support the children/young person in your care.

For more information on the areas where we can help you, please read our ‘Because you’re important too’ booklet or contact the Patient & Family Support team on 01252 729430 or email [email protected]