Supporting children with their grief through the pandemic

The children’s charity Banardo’s is trying to raise awareness of how children and young people can be supported with their grief through the pandemic. 

The charity emphasises how children and families can no longer access their usual support networks, which can make going through a bereavement a very lonely and isolating time.

‘During these unusual times it’s natural to want to shield children when someone dies.’ says Michelle Scullion from Barnardo’s Child Bereavement Service -  ‘Although they will be upset which may be difficult for you to watch, it is important they are told the truth, as this will help them cope. Talking with children and young people and being as honest as we can, allows them to feel involved and to feel safe.’

‘Families who have had a loved one die can continue to remember that person at home by cooking their favourite meal or listening to their favourite music together.’

The children and families the charity is supporting are  developing new ways of  remembering their loved ones during lockdown, for example by making a star and decorating it with images that remind them of the person or writing a short note to that person. These stars are being displayed around the house or in windows as a reminder.

Barnardo’s have shared this video of a thought provoking story for children and young people, to help them explore language about their feelings and process their grief. These are not stories to be read at bedtime as they are likely to create opportunities for your children to ask questions and the story may lead to discussions around creative ways to support one another when feeling sad, mad, confused, upset, scared or anxious.   

Barnardo’s NI Child Bereavement Service have an advice line for any adult concerned about a child or young person (4-18 years) who has been bereaved, to discuss ways of supporting them during their grieving. The advice line number is 07867372711 and the line is open Monday, Tuesday and Friday 10am -1pm. 

For more information on supporting grieving children the charity has developed advice which can be found here.  Grieving During COVID 19.

By Ellen Jones