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  1. FAQs

Bereavement Support Practitioner | Part-time | Hybrid London

Are you passionate about supporting bereaved children, young people and families, and the professionals who work with them?

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Would you like to bring your expertise, skills and experience to the third sector and contribute to a growing national charity? Are you passionate about supporting bereaved children, young people and families, and the professionals who work with them?

We are looking to recruit a talented and highly motivated individual to work alongside the other members of the Bereavement Services Team, reporting to the Regional Lead – London.

Applicants should have a recognised, health, social care, or counselling qualification, experience in working with children, young people and families, excellent communication skills and be passionate about supporting bereaved families and those whose roles bring them into contact with these families.

Child Bereavement UK offers a generous package of benefits including an employee assistance programme, 5% pension contribution and life assurance scheme.

Closing Date: 27 March 2023

Interviews: 3 April 2023, in person at Child Bereavement UK's Newham Office.

If you are interested in knowing more please see the job description and person specification or contact [email protected]

Role: Bereavement Support Practitioner (part-time)

Hours: 30 hours per week

Rate: £30,000 pro rata per annum (includes London Weighting)

Reporting to: Bereavement Services Regional Lead – London

Location: Hybrid working between home, weekly outreach Support in Barnet and occasional support from Child Bereavement UK’s centres in Newham and Brent.

Applications should be by CV accompanied with a short covering letter, detailing which post you are interested in applying for and how your experience fits the role. Please email Jane Hobart on [email protected]

Applications will be reviewed, and interviews offered, on an on-going basis. We reserve the right to close the role prior to the closing date, should a suitable applicant be found, so please submit your application as soon as possible.

The Charity is committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

Data Protection Statement for Recruitment

Published: 8th March, 2023

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Festival Intern Volunteer

May to July | Loudwater, Buckinghamshire | 2 days per week

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This internship role involves working closely with our friendly fundraising team to help recruit and organise a team of over 3,000 volunteers to support festivals, gigs, expos, and events across the UK. The intern will assist staff to establish new event partnerships, support the recruitment of volunteers, and have the opportunity to attend agreed events and manage teams at festivals. This role would be ideal for anyone wanting to learn new skills in event management, fundraising or volunteer management. The idea candidate will be friendly, able to follow instructions and a good communicator.

Department 
Fundraising

Terms 
May to July 2023, working two days a week (9am to 5.30pm with an hour for lunch) and selected weekend events, which can be flexible and agreed with the successful intern.

Location
Child Bereavement UK, Unit B Knaves Beech Way, Loudwater, Bucks HP10 9QY

Essential skills required

  • A friendly and approachable personality
  • Ability to follow instruction
  • Proficient in Word, Excel and email
  • A willingness to learn new skills and processes
  • Professional
  • Comfortable inputting data
  • Confident with colleagues and other volunteers
  • Organised
  • Ability to be proactive and problem solve  
  • Good writing skills

Ideal skills required

  • Confident in communicating with the public
  • A good knowledge of different social media platforms

Key activities:

  • Working closely with our fundraising team to deliver a big project raising thousands for the charity. 
  • Support volunteering recruitment across a variety of channels including social media, businesses, and volunteer platforms.
  • Involved in the recruitment and management of volunteers during the registration process. 
  • Training on NXT, our internal CRM system, and will use this system to update volunteer records.
  • Involved in strategy and update meetings.
  • At events you will help manage volunteers on the day and provide excellent supporter care to festival goers.

What you will get out of the experience

  • Working in the festival/events industry.
  • Working in the charity third sector.
  • Training on NXT, our CRM system. 
  • Volunteer recruitment and management. 
  • Effective research, people management procedures and marketing plans. 
  • Providing excellent supporter care. 
  • Free entry to festivals.
  • Priority access to other volunteering positions across the charity.
  • Full expenses paid for at events including hotel stays, food and drink.

Key working relationships

  • Fundraising Team
  • Child Bereavement UK’s volunteers
  • Festival goers

Equality and diversity

The Charity is committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

We encourage diversity and equality in all our volunteer roles. If you have a disability or additional need and would like to discuss this with us prior to signing up, please email: [email protected] to see how we can support you. 

Terms and conditions

This job profile is not intended to be a complete list of duties and responsibilities but is a guide for information. It may be reviewed and changed in the light of the evolving needs of the Charity and as part of the volunteer’s development. Any changes will be made following discussion with the post holder.

Apply now

Published: 7th March, 2023

Updated: 23rd March, 2023

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Cheer Point Volunteers - London Marathon

23 April | London | 4 to 6 hours

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We are looking for warm, friendly volunteers with the ability to energise our cheer points at events. By joining our cheer point team, you’ll be helping to motivate our runners to make it around the course. You’ll also have a great view of the event and the chance to soak up the amazing atmosphere. Please sign up and help support our team.

Department
Fundraising 

Terms
4 to 6 hours.

Based
London Marathon: 23 April 2023

Essential skills required   

  • A friendly and approachable personality
  • Plenty of enthusiasm

Support given              

  • Staff on site to support and brief you on the day
  • A written brief with detailed instructions before the event
  • Everything you need to cheer on our participants with bang-bang sticks, pom-poms and whistles
  • A Child Bereavement UK branded volunteer t-shirt
  • Refreshments on the day.

What you’ll get out of the experience

  • Meet new people and make a huge difference to our runners by supporting them to reach the finish line.
  • Enjoy the friendly and exciting atmosphere and get a great view of the race.
  • Cheering on Child Bereavement UK fundraisers who are taking on a challenge to raise vital funds, helping us to support bereaved children, parents and families to rebuild their lives, when a child grieves or when a child dies.

Key working relationships
Fundraising Team 

Equality and diversity
The Charity is committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

We encourage diversity and equality in all our volunteer roles. If you have a disability or additional need and would like to discuss this with us prior to signing up, please email: [email protected] to see how we can support you. 

Terms and conditions
This job profile is not intended to be a complete list of duties and responsibilities but is a guide for information. It may be reviewed and changed in the light of the evolving needs of the Charity and as part of the volunteer’s development. Any changes will be made following discussion with the post holder.

Apply Now

Published: 5th March, 2023

Updated: 7th March, 2023

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Cheer Point Volunteers - Manchester 10k

18 May | Manchester | 4 hours

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We are looking for warm, friendly volunteers with the ability to energise our cheer points at events. By joining our cheer point team, you’ll be helping to motivate our runners to make it around the course. You’ll also have a great view of the event and the chance to soak up the amazing atmosphere. We will provide everything you need, including a brief before the event, support on the day and everything you need to cheer on our runners, from bang-bang sticks to whistles, pom-poms and refreshments.

Volunteering commitment
Volunteers are needed on the day of the event from 9.30am to 1.30pm. 

Location and date
Chester Road, Manchester on 21 May 2023.

What you’ll get out of the experience

  • Meet new people and make a huge difference to our runners by supporting them to reach the finish line.
  • Enjoy the friendly and exciting atmosphere and get a great view of the race.
  • Cheering on Child Bereavement UK fundraisers who are taking on a challenge to raise vital funds, helping us to support bereaved children, parents and families to rebuild their lives, when a child grieves or when a child dies. 

Your team
This role is with the Fundraising Team.

Equality and diversity
The Charity is committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

We encourage diversity and equality in all our volunteer roles. If you have a disability or additional need and would like to discuss this with us prior to signing up, please email: [email protected] to see how we can support you. 

Terms and conditions
This job profile is not intended to be a complete list of duties and responsibilities but is a guide for information. It may be reviewed and changed in the light of the evolving needs of the Charity and as part of the volunteer’s development. Any changes will be made following discussion with the post holder.

Apply on our portal

Published: 3rd March, 2023

Updated: 7th March, 2023

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About death and grief

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A Special Scar: The experiences of people bereaved by suicide

Alison Wertheimer

Written and researched by a bereaved sibling, this book covers the losses of siblings, parents, children and friends.

Buy from Amazon

Coping with grief when someone you love dies suddenly

This free booklet aims to help you understand emotions and feelings commonly suffered after a sudden death. It provides straightforward advice on how to cope and who can help you to recover.

Available to download from Sudden

From a Clear Blue Sky

Timothy Knatchbull

A powerful survivor’s account of the IRA bomb that killed the author’s 14-year-old twin brother, his grandparents and a family friend, published on the 30th anniversary of the atrocity.

Buy from Amazon

GriefWorks app

Julia Samuel 

Drawing on Child Bereavement UK’s Founder Patron Julia Samuel’s 30 years of experience as a leading grief therapist, the GriefWorks app was designed to effectively address the full range of emotions surrounding grief. The app pairs Julia’s advice with actionable practices and exercises, gently nudging you to record and examine your own thoughts and feelings. The app also offers more than 30 interactive tools including breathing visualisation exercises, guided meditations, daily gratitude check-ins, prompted evening reflections, and more.

Available on Apple Store and Google Play Store.£49.99 for 3 months. Get a 10% discount when using this link.

Help is at hand: A resource for people bereaved by suicide

Department of Health 

This free guide is for people who are affected by suicide or other sudden, traumatic death. It aims firstly to help people who are unexpectedly bereaved in this way. It also provides information for healthcare and other professionals who come into contact with bereaved people, to assist them in providing help and to suggest how they themselves may find support if they need it.

Download from the Department of Health

How to Get to Grips with Grief: 40 Ways to Manage the Unmanageable

James Withey

This book is for anyone who has lost someone. It may have been recently, or it may have been years ago, but still it stings like it was yesterday.In his twenty years supporting people with their own grief, as a counsellor and social care worker, he has helped others work through their despair and reconcile the injustice of grief. 
 
With his trademark humour and warmth, he provides forty ways to help you live with and manage your grief no matter what stage you're at. It provides comfort for when it all gets too much, ideas for when you feel at a loss for what to do and more than a laugh or two to balance out the sadness. 

Purchase from Amazon

It's Okay that you're Not Okay

Megan Devine

When a painful loss or life-shattering event upends your world, here is the first thing to know: there is nothing wrong with grief. "Grief is simply love in its most wild and painful form," says Megan Devine. "It is a natural and sane response to loss." So, why does our culture treat grief like a disease to be cured as quickly as possible? In It's OK That You're Not OK, Megan Devine offers a profound new approach to both the experience of grief and the way we try to help others who have endured tragedy.

Buy from Amazon

Michael Rosen's Sad Book

Michael Rosen

A very personal story that speaks to adults as well as children. The author describes feeling sad after the death of his son and what he does to try to cope with it.

Buy from Amazon

We Get It

Heather L. Servaty-Seib and David C. Fajgenbaum

A unique collection of 33 narrative by bereaved students and young adults in America, this book aims to help young adults who are grieving and provide guidance for those who seek to support them. It has been described as like having a group in a book.

Buy on Amazon

You Are Not Alone

Cariad Lloyd

In You Are Not Alone, Cariad shares all that she has learned from presenting her podcast, Griefcast. She reflects on her own grief, the grief of others, and the psychology and science behind how our society deals with death and loss. Funeral thoughts, therapy, coping with anniversaries, bad friends, good friends, birthdays, weddings, missing them, not missing them - this is grief in all its sad, surprising, awkward, tender and sometimes funny forms. 

You Are Not Alone is a road map for all of us: for anybody who has ever felt lost in grief, who would like to help someone they know through theirs, or who just wants to understand life a little better. 

Buy on Amazon

'You'll Get Over It': The Rage of Bereavement

Virginia Ironside

The death of a loved one is the most traumatic experience any of us face. No two people cope with it the same way: some cry while others remain dry-eyed; some discover growth through pain, others find arid wastes; some feel angry, others feel numb. Virginia Ironside deals with this complicated and sensitive issue with great frankness and insight, drawing on other's people's accounts as well as her own experiences.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 1st March, 2023

Updated: 7th March, 2023

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Pregnancy loss, miscarriage and neonatal death

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A Silent Sorrow: Pregnancy Loss - Guidance and Support for You and Your Family

Ingrid Kohn, Perry Lynn-Moffit and Isabelle Wilkins   

For families seeking emotional and practical support after a pregnancy loss. Well organised and easy to read this book offers practical suggestions for the many topics covered. They include bereaved mothers, fathers, grandparents, explaining to your children and what might help. Sections can be read as and when bereaved parents feel able.

Buy from Amazon

Fathers Feel Too: A Book for Men by Men on Coping with the Death of a Baby

Andrew Don

When Andrew Don’s baby Lara Jean died at five months in the womb, the hospital consultant sent his wife a condolence letter which didn’t mention him. Andrew felt like a non-person. Seven years on he turned his experience into a book telling the stories of 10 men who have lost babies either during pregnancy, at birth or during the first year of life.

Buy from Amazon

Mainly for Fathers 

A short booklet containing information that many fathers whose baby has died said they needed to know. It includes sections on feelings, telling other people, you and your partner, returning to work, certificates and registration.

Available from Sands

Unspeakable Losses: Healing from Miscarriage, Abortion, and Other Pregnancy Loss

Kim Kluger Bell

Written by a psychotherapist and counsellor. Approaches for healing for women and men who have experienced miscarriage, abortion, infertility and other pregnancy losses.

Buy from Amazon

When your baby dies: a particular kind of grief 

Child Bereavement UK

Practical advice and guidance for parents at the time of their baby's death in hospital. Information space included for local sources of support to be added by the professional caring for the parents. 

A print-friendly guide is free to download from here
Printed booklets are also available to buy from Child Bereavement UK

When a Baby Dies: The Experience of Late Miscarriage, Stillbirth and Neonatal Death

Nancy Kohner and Alix Henley   

In this book, parents who have lost a baby tell their stories. They speak about what happened, how they felt, how others have helped them and how they helped themselves. Using letters from and interviews with many bereaved parents, Nancy Kohner and Alix Henley have written a book that offers understanding of what it means to lose a baby and the grief that follows.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 5th December, 2022

Updated: 7th December, 2022

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About death and grief

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Always and Forever

Alan Durant

When Fox dies the rest of his ‘family’ are absolutely distraught. How will Mole, Otter and Hare go on without their beloved friend? But, months later, Squirrel reminds them all of how funny Fox used to be, and they realise that Fox is still there in their hearts and memories.

Buy from Amazon

Badger's Parting Gifts

Susan Varley

Badger is so old that he knows he will soon die. He tries to prepare his friends for this event, but when he does die, they are still grief-stricken. Gradually they come to terms with their grief by remembering all the practical things Badger taught them, and so Badger lives on in his friends’ memories of him.

The new, 35th anniversary edition of the book features a reading guide from Child Bereavement UK that provides tips for reading Badger’s Parting Gifts with children and helping them better understand grief.

Download our online information sheet Talking With and Supporting Bereaved Children with further notes and guidance, using examples and illustrations from the book.

Buy from Amazon

Goodbye Mog

Judith Kerr

Mog was tired. Mog thought, ‘I want to sleep for ever.’ And so she did. But a little bit of her stayed awake to see what would happen next. Mog keeps watch over the upset Thomas family, who miss her terribly, and she wonders how they will ever manage without her. Eventually the family are able to begin moving forward in their lives, but little Debbie says she will always remember Mog. ‘So I should hope,’ thinks Mog. And she flies up and up and up right into the sun.  

Buy from Amazon

Goodbye Mousie

Robie H Harris

The story of a young boy dealing with the death of his pet mouse is handled with the sure touch of an author familiar with children’s tender emotions. Simply told by the boy, in a matter of fact tone with a dash of humour, he recounts his reactions to the death of his pet mouse.

Buy from Amazon

Hamza attends a Janaza

Shabana Hussain

Hamza’s usual fun Saturday is cancelled when his family receives the sad news that Uncle Sameer has died. Follow Hamza through the day as he learns about the various aspects of a janaza. This story is a gentle introduction to attending an Islamic funeral, told from a child’s perspective. It familiarises children with the etiquettes and some of the rituals surrounding a funeral and provides an opportunity for important discussions around death and the afterlife in an age-appropriate manner.

Buy from Kube Publishing

I Lost Something Very Special 

Husna Rahman and Anita Bagdi

'I Lost Something Very Special' tells the story of a little girl who shares some of her fondest memories as she tries to make sense of losing something very, very special. This book is centred around loss and grief for children aged 3-7 years old.

Buy from Amazon

I Miss You: A First Look at Death

Pat Thomas

This book helps children understand that death is a natural complement to life, and that grief and a sense of loss are normal feelings for them to have. For pre-school and early years.

Buy from Amazon

 

Love Will Never Die

Clare Shaw

Using clear but child-friendly language and large colourful illustrations, this rhyming book addresses the mixed feelings a bereaved child might go through. It offers support and understanding alongside interactive areas where the child can express themselves through writing and drawing.

Buy from Amazon

Michael Rosen's Sad Book

Michael Rosen

A very personal story that speaks to adults as well as children. The author describes feeling sad after the death of his son and what he does to try to cope with it.

Buy from Amazon

Muddles, Puddles and Sunshine: Your Activity Book to Help When Someone Has Died

Winston’s Wish

Offering practical and sensitive support for bereaved children, this book suggests a helpful series of activities and exercises accompanied by the friendly characters of Bee and Bear. It aims to help children make sense of their experience by reflecting on different aspects of their grief.

Buy from Amazon

No Matter What

Debi Gliori

'I'm a grim and grumpy little Small and nobody loves me at all,' said a small fox. But that's not true and Small's mother is determined to prove that her love is limitless - no matter what! With sparkly foil stars and a small, sturdy board format, this is the perfect story to share with the very young. A beautiful, lyrical, loving book about setting big worries to rest.

Buy from Amazon

Pepper, Pooch and Little

Caroline Jay, illustrated by Catherine Swan

A picture book for 4+ year olds about the lifetimes of Pepper the hamster, Pooch the puppy and Little the tortoise, which offers a gentle introduction to life and death and the importance of the memories that link them.  Designed to trigger discussion and help adults to support children as they think about life and death.  

Buy from Swan Jay Books

Rabbityness

Jo Empson

This is the story of a very special rabbit. He enjoys doing rabbit things, but he also loves – well, un-rabbity things. His boundless creative talent is a source of joy and inspiration to the other rabbits. When Rabbit suddenly disappears, no one knows where he has gone. His friends are desolate. But, as it turns out, Rabbit left behind some very special gifts for them, to help them discover their own un-rabbity talents!

Buy from Amazon

Remembering

Dianne Leutner, Joan Gorman and Daniel Postgate.   

Part book, part scrapbook Remembering was created to help keep a child’s memories alive after the loss of someone special and to give children a place to return to whenever they wish.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

Saying Goodbye to Hare

Carol Lee

This is an uplifting story written for children aged 5-9 years about death and dying. As young Rabbit witnesses the life, illness and death of his dear friend Hare, the story explores some of the emotional and physical feelings, and some of the questions children have at this time. The story is sensitively written to give a positive, thoughtful message about death and dying. It also includes guidance notes for adults supporting a bereaved child.

Buy from Amazon

Someone has died in road crash

Mary Williams OBE and Caroline Chisholm   

Two young characters, who have been bereaved by a road crash, narrate the colourful book by giving caring and helpful tips. Tackling all the tough questions that children may want to ask, the book deals with the crash itself, funerals, police investigation and the possible emotions a child may experience. There is also an additional download with tips for adults on how to use the book with young children.

Download from Brake

Someone has died suddenly

Mary Williams and Steve Fraser

This colourful book, prepared in partnership with bereavement specialists, is for suddenly bereaved children and adults to read together. It helps children understand their strong feelings and gives suggestions to help them cope. It provides straightforward information about practical things that happen after a sudden death, such as a post-mortem examination. There is also an additional download with tips for adults on how to use the book with young children.

Available to download from Sudden

Someone I know has died

Trish Phillips  

Innovative activity book with interactive features written for bereaved children to do by themselves or with adult help. For primary-aged children. 

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

The Boy Who Built a Wall Around Himself

Ali Redford   

Boy built a wall to keep himself safe. Behind it he felt strong and more protected. Then Someone Kind came along. She bounced a ball, sang and painted on the other side of the wall, and Boy began to wonder if life on the other side might be better after all. Written for children aged 4 to 9, this gentle full-colour picture book uses a simple metaphor to explain how children who have had painful or traumatic experiences can build barriers between themselves and other people. It will help children explore their feelings and encourage communication.

Buy from Amazon

The Invisible String

Patricia Karst

This story that teaches of the tie that really binds. Mums and Dads feel the tug whenever kids give it; and kids feel the tug that comes right back: the Invisible String reaches from heart to heart. Does everybody have an Invisible String? How far does it reach anyway? Whether it is a loved one who has died, or a parent who is just in the next room, this book illustrates a new way to cope with a child’s fear of loneliness and separation. Here is a warm and delightful lesson teaching young and old that we are never really alone.

Buy from Amazon

The Lonely Tree

Nicholas Halliday

This beautiful and moving story follows the first year in the life of a lone evergreen tree growing in the heart of the ancient oak woodland of the New Forest. The evergreen is befriended by the oldest oak who has lived for hundreds of years. When winter arrives all the oak trees must go to sleep, but of course evergreens never sleep. Finally, after a long, cold and lonely winter, spring brings both sadness and joy to the little tree.

­There is also a colouring book that accompanies this story, which you can also buy from Amazon.

Buy from Amazon

The Magical Wood

Mark Lemon

One cold and stormy day, the wind blew a terrible gale. The next day the tree family woke to find that Strongest Tree had fallen to the woodland floor and had sadly died. How would the tree family survive the seasons without the strength of Strongest Tree? 

Audiobook available for free from Lemon Drop Books

The Memory Tree 

Britta Teckentrup

Fox has lived a long and happy life in the forest. One day, he lies down in his favourite clearing, takes a deep breath, and falls asleep for ever. One by one, Fox's friends tell stories of the special moments that they shared with Fox. 

This gentle and comforting tale celebrates life and the memories that are left behind when a loved one dies.

Buy from Amazon

The Tenth Good Thing about Barney

Judith Viorst

A book looking about death from the perspective of a child. Though dealing with the death of a pet, it helps children deal with the reality of any death, including why we have funerals. This book does not have religious overtones, so it can be used by families with all different sets of beliefs.

Buy from Amazon

Tough Boris

Mem Fox

Boris von der Borch is a mean, greedy old pirate – tough as nails, through and through, like all pirates. Or is he?

Buy from Amazon

Waterbugs and Dragonflies: Explaining Death to Young children

Doris Stickney   

Written from a Christian perspective, this acclaimed book can be used to help explain the concept of death to young children. The story illustrates that death is inevitable, irreversible but natural.

Buy from Amazon

What Does Dead Mean?
A Book for Young Children to Help Explain Death and Dying

Caroline Jay and Jenni Thomas, OBE

A book for young children to help explain death and dying, based on the many questions that children ask. This book looks at questions such as why ‘Why can’t doctors and nurses make people better?’, and offers practical help for children, as well as guidance for parents and carers when a child is bereaved.

Buy from Amazon

When Dinosaurs Die – A Guide to Understanding Death

Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown

A comprehensive, sensitive guide for families dealing with the loss of loved ones, ‘When Dinosaurs Die’ helps primary aged children understand what death means, and how best to cope with their feelings.

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When someone special dies - for under 7s

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

When someone special dies - for ages 7 to 11

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

When Something Terrible Happens: Children Can Learn to Cope with Grief

Marge Heegaard

Terrible things can happen to children. Traumatic events in the lives of their families, their friends or in the world leave then feeling confused, insecure and frightened. There are floods, earthquakes, and sometimes people cause violence and trauma. This is a workbook designed to help children understand and deal with overwhelming feelings from loss and change.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 5th December, 2022

Updated: 8th March, 2023

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When a baby dies

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A Silent Sorrow: Pregnancy Loss - Guidance and Support for You and Your Family

Ingrid Kohn, Perry Lynn-Moffit and Isabelle Wilkins   

For families seeking emotional and practical support after a pregnancy loss. Well organised and easy to read this book offers practical suggestions for the many topics covered. They include bereaved mothers, fathers, grandparents, explaining to your children and what might help. Sections can be read as and when bereaved parents feel able.

Buy from Amazon

Fathers Feel Too: A Book for Men by Men on Coping with the Death of a Baby

Andrew Don

When Andrew Don’s baby Lara Jean died at five months in the womb, the hospital consultant sent his wife a condolence letter which didn’t mention him. Andrew felt like a non-person. Seven years on he turned his experience into a book telling the stories of 10 men who have lost babies either during pregnancy, at birth or during the first year of life.

Buy from Amazon

Losing a Baby

Sarah Ewing   

This book is for those parents coping with the death of a young child. It’s written for the parents of babies who die before the age of two, as well as babies born prematurely who might have lived, but not early miscarriages. This book covers: the first few days; practicalities (arranging the funeral etc); adjusting to the reality of the death; coping as a couple; what to tell your other children; dealing with the outside world; getting counselling and support; traditional remedies and complementary therapies.

Buy from Amazon

Mainly for Fathers 

A short booklet containing information that many fathers whose baby has died said they needed to know. It includes sections on feelings, telling other people, you and your partner, returning to work, certificates and registration.

Available from Sands

Unspeakable Losses: Healing from Miscarriage, Abortion, and Other Pregnancy Loss

Kim Kluger Bell

Written by a psychotherapist and counsellor. Approaches for healing for women and men who have experienced miscarriage, abortion, infertility and other pregnancy losses.

Buy from Amazon

When a Baby Dies: The Experience of Late Miscarriage, Stillbirth and Neonatal Death

Nancy Kohner and Alix Henley   

In this book, parents who have lost a baby tell their stories. They speak about what happened, how they felt, how others have helped them and how they helped themselves. Using letters from and interviews with many bereaved parents, Nancy Kohner and Alix Henley have written a book that offers understanding of what it means to lose a baby and the grief that follows.

Buy from Amazon

When your baby dies: a particular kind of grief 

Child Bereavement UK

Practical advice and guidance for parents at the time of their baby's death in hospital. Information space included for local sources of support to be added by the professional caring for the parents. 

A print-friendly guide is free to download from here
Printed booklets are also available to buy from Child Bereavement UK

When Words are not Enough: Creative Responses to Grief

Jane Harris

Everyone grieves for someone at some point in their lives. But how do we deal with the silence that often surrounds grief? How do we find ways to express painful feelings when words are not enough? In this deeply personal and beautiful reflection on grief Jane Harris and Jimmy Edmonds draw on their own experience of loss, and how the death of their son Josh has led to a creative response that is more than word bound.

Available from Amazon

Published: 4th December, 2022

Updated: 8th December, 2022

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Activity books and resources to support bereaved children

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After a Murder: A Workbook for Grieving Kids

Dougy Centre

Through the stories, thoughts and feelings of other kids who have experienced a murder, this hands-on workbook allows children to see that they are not alone in their feelings and experiences. The workbook includes drawing activities, puzzles and word games to help explain confusing elements specific to a murder, such as the police, media and legal system.

Buy from Amazon

After a Suicide: A Workbook for Grieving Kids

Dougy Centre

In this hands-on, interactive workbook, children who have been exposed to a suicide can learn from other grieving kids. The workbook includes drawing activities, puzzles, stories, advice from other kids and helpful suggestions for how to navigate the grief process after a suicide death.

Buy from Amazon

Beyond the Rainbow: A Workbook for Children in the Advanced Stages of a Very Serious Illness

Marge Heegard

This book provides children and their caregivers a broad range of opportunities to express thoughts and feelings related to advanced stages of a life-threatening illness. The book has a warm interactive quality to it. Through the creative activities it offers, children can learn to communicate more openly about their illness, develop coping skills, express personal wishes, foster hope, and share thoughts and concerns about death.

Buy from Amazon

Beyond the Rough Rock: Supporting a Child Who Has Been Bereaved Through Suicide

Di Stubbs and Julie Stokes

This booklet offers practical advice for families in the immediate days and weeks when suicide has been the cause of death. It aims to give parents and professionals the confidence to involve children in discussions about the nature of a death by suicide.

Buy from Amazon

Finding Your Own Way to Grieve: A Creative Activity Workbook for Kids and Teens on the Autism Spectrum

Karla Helbert 

A creative activity workbook for grieving children and teens on the Autistic Spectrum. The clear concise language will help adults communicate with children around the abstract concepts of death and grief.

Buy from Amazon

 

Grief in Children: A Handbook for Adults

Atle Dyregov

This fully updated second edition of “Grief in Children” explains children’s understanding of death at different ages and gives a detailed outline of exactly how the adults around them can best help them cope.

Buy from Amazon

Luna’s Red Hat

Emmi Smid

This book tells the story of Luna, whose mum died by suicide one year ago and she still finds it difficult to understand why. Dad talks to her and explains what happened, and together they think about all the happy memories they have of Mum. This book is designed to be read with children age 6+ who have experienced the loss of a loved one by suicide. It includes a guide for parents and professionals.

Buy from Amazon

Muddles, Puddles and Sunshine: Your Activity Book to Help When Someone Has Died

Winston’s Wish

Offering practical and sensitive support for bereaved children, this book suggests a helpful series of activities and exercises accompanied by the friendly characters of Bee and Bear. It aims to help children make sense of their experience by reflecting on different aspects of their grief.

Buy from Amazon

Ollie the Octopus Loss and Bereavement Activity Book: A Therapeutic Story with Activities

Dr Karen Treisman

This activity book has been developed by expert child Psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Karen Treisman. The first part of the book is a colourful illustrated therapeutic story about Ollie the Octopus, with a focus on Ollie making sense of and processing the loss of his mum, Orla. This is followed by a wealth of creative activities and colourful photocopiable worksheets for children and the people supporting them to explore aspects of loss, grief, death, and bereavement, and how to find ways to understand and cope with them.

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Precious Time

Lindsey Stukalov Stone

This book helps children understand their feelings when a loved one is dying. The book is an interactive tool for adults to use as a guide to plan their own conversation or to be used in direct work with children. The book supports the child's mental health through an interactive, gentle and validating approach. 

Buy from Heart of Kent Hospice

Red Chocolate Elephants: For children bereaved by suicide - Book & DVD 

Diana C.Sands  

Provides adults with the understanding and assistance to support primary school aged children experiencing the death of a family member to suicide. It is not intended for children to read on their own, but as an assisted reading activity with an adult, reading a few pages and taking the time to explore concerns. Provides a sensitive and appropriate means of engaging with children around the difficult question of death through suicide.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

Someone Very Important Has Just Died: Immediate Help for People Caring for Children of All Ages at the Time of a Close Bereavement

Mary Turner

This short book tackles the sensitive issues of what to tell children, how far to include them in the events immediately after the death, and how to tend to their physical and emotional needs. The material is suitable for anyone regardless of their background and beliefs, and is supplemented with information on where to go to obtain longer term bereavement support.

Buy from Amazon

Supporting children when a baby has died

Sands

Booklet mainly for parents but useful for anyone who comes into contact with a child whose baby brother or sister has died before, at, or soon after birth. It includes information about the needs of older children and teenagers bereaved in this way.

Available to download from Sands

Talking About Death: A Dialogue Between Parent and Child

Earl Grollman

This guide to helping children cope with death includes an illustrated, read-along story, and discusses coping with a child’s anger, denial or guilt, and how to discuss funerals, cemeteries and grief.

Buy from Amazon

The Little Flower Bulb

Eleanor Gormally

The Little Flower Bulb tells the story of Jamie, his mum and his twin sisters, and of how Jamie comes to deal with the death of his father. Suitable for children aged 3-8, this beautifully illustrated book will be helpful for parents when talking to children bereaved by the suicide of a close relative.

Buy from Amazon

The Snowdrop Tree

This charming story uses Forest School inspired activities to guide the child through their emotions. From subtle changes in the weather and environment on the pages to the personal adventure of the polar bear family. Each page has lots to look and talk about with activities explained and adult support prompts to guide the adult.

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When Someone Very Special Dies: Children Can Learn to Cope with Grief - Workbook

M Heegard

This work book was designed to teach basic concepts of death and help children understand and express the many feelings they have when someone special dies. Communication is increased and coping skills are developed as they illustrate their books with their personal story.

Buy from Amazon

When your Partner Dies: Supporting your children

Child Bereavement UK

A short booklet which offers guidance for a surviving partner when parenting their bereaved children as well as coping with their own grief. It was developed with help from bereaved families and was originally funded by BBC Children in Need. Also useful for GP surgeries, Health visitors etc.

Download a copy here

Published: 4th December, 2022

Updated: 8th March, 2023

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When a child of any age dies

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A Heart That Works

Rob Delaney

In this devastating, beautiful and deeply moving memoir of the loss of his son, Rob Delaney explores what life really means, and why it matters. This is the story of what happens when you lose a child, and everything you discover about life in the process. Why does he feel compelled to talk about it, to write about it, to disseminate information designed to make people feel something like what he felt? What his wife feels? What his other sons feel? Done properly or well, it will hurt them. Why does he want to hurt people? Because, despite the death of his son, Rob still loves people. For that reason, he wants them to understand.

Available from Amazon

Don't Let Them Tell You How to Grieve: Lines to let you know you are not alone

Gina Claye   

Poems written by a mother who experienced the sudden deaths of her 19-year-old daughter by suicide and her 32-year-old son from encephalitis.

Available from Amazon

GriefWorks app

Julia Samuel 

Drawing on Child Bereavement UK’s Founder Patron Julia Samuel’s 30 years of experience as a leading grief therapist, the GriefWorks app was designed to effectively address the full range of emotions surrounding grief. The app pairs Julia’s advice with actionable practices and exercises, gently nudging you to record and examine your own thoughts and feelings. The app also offers more than 30 interactive tools including breathing visualisation exercises, guided meditations, daily gratitude check-ins, prompted evening reflections, and more.

Available on Apple Store and Google Play Store.£49.99 for 3 months. Get a 10% discount when using this link.

How to Get to Grips with Grief: 40 Ways to Manage the Unmanageable

James Withey

This book is for anyone who has lost someone. It may have been recently, or it may have been years ago, but still it stings like it was yesterday. In his twenty years supporting people with their own grief, as a counsellor and social care worker, he has helped others work through their despair and reconcile the injustice of grief.

With his trademark humour and warmth, he provides forty ways to help you live with and manage your grief no matter what stage you're at. It provides comfort for when it all gets too much, ideas for when you feel at a loss for what to do and more than a laugh or two to balance out the sadness.

Available from Amazon

Losing Liam

Sue Bracknell   

Poems written following the author's son’s suicide in 2003, helping her to connect with him and to grieve. 

Buy from Child Bereavement UK   

When Words are not Enough: Creative Responses to Grief

Jane Harris

Everyone grieves for someone at some point in their lives. But how do we deal with the silence that often surrounds grief? How do we find ways to express painful feelings when words are not enough? In this deeply personal and beautiful reflection on grief Jane Harris and Jimmy Edmonds draw on their own experience of loss, and how the death of their son Josh has led to a creative response that is more than word bound.

Available from Amazon

You Are Not Alone

Cariad Lloyd

In You Are Not Alone, Cariad shares all that she has learned from presenting her podcast, Griefcast. She reflects on her own grief, the grief of others, and the psychology and science behind how our society deals with death and loss. Funeral thoughts, therapy, coping with anniversaries, bad friends, good friends, birthdays, weddings, missing them, not missing them - this is grief in all its sad, surprising, awkward, tender and sometimes funny forms. 

You Are Not Alone is a road map for all of us: for anybody who has ever felt lost in grief, who would like to help someone they know through theirs, or who just wants to understand life a little better. 

Available on Amazon

Published: 3rd December, 2022

Updated: 13th March, 2023

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When someone is not expected to live (pre-bereavement)

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As Big as it Gets

Julie Stokes and Diana Crossley

This booklet aims to help families cope with the serious illness of a parent or child. It provides a range of ideas for parents and carers so that they may feel more able to explain to their children what is happening. The booklet also includes some suggestions about what parents might say to children and how to offer support.

Buy from Winston's Wish

Beyond the Rainbow: A Workbook for Children in the Advanced Stages of a Very Serious Illness

Marge Heegard

This book provides children and their caregivers a broad range of opportunities to express thoughts and feelings related to advanced stages of a life-threatening illness. The book has a warm interactive quality to it. Through the creative activities it offers, children can learn to communicate more openly about their illness, develop coping skills, express personal wishes, foster hope, and share thoughts and concerns about death.

Buy from Amazon

Fox & Goldfish

Nils Pieters

Fox knows that Goldfish is very unwell and is going to die. Before it’s too late he takes his friend on an epic adventure beyond the fishbowl. This story shows the importance of spending precious time with someone who is ill and doing things together whilst the ill person is still able to. This is important in building memories for a child, and for the person who is ill, of spending precious moments together. It would be particularly relevant and useful in preparing a child for the death of a special person in their lives.

Buy from Amazon

My Brother and Me

Sarah Courtauld and Rebecca Cobb 

This picture books story deals with the issues around a sibling's serious illness, and stays in hospital, and how his brother copes with different emotions and feelings. Aimed at children aged 4-10 years.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

Only one of me - A love letter from Dad

Lisa Wells, Michelle Robinson and Tim Budgen 

Only One of Me - A love letter from Dad is a gentle and comforting book to share with a child when a father or father figure is not expected to live. Beautifully illustrated throughout, the book also includes an empty spread at the back for a family to share messages and a photo.  Also available in Welsh.

Buy from Graffeg Publishing

Only one of me - A love letter from Mum

Lisa Wells, Michelle Robinson and Tim Budgen 

Only One of Me - A love letter from Mum is a gentle and comforting book to share with a child when a mother or mother figure is not expected to live. Beautifully illustrated throughout, the book also includes an empty spread at the back for a family to share messages and a photo. Also available in Welsh. 

Buy from Graffeg Publishing

Precious Time

Lindsey Stukalov Stone

This book helps children understand their feelings when a loved one is dying. The book is an interactive tool for adults to use as a guide to plan their own conversation or to be used in direct work with children. The book supports the child's mental health through an interactive, gentle and validating approach. 

Buy from Heart of Kent Hospice

Standing on His Own Two Feet: A Diary of Dying

Sue Grant

Alexander had just begun his studies at university when he was diagnosed with a rare bone cancer. In this honest account, Alex’s mother traces the impact of the diagnosis on the whole family and outlines the issues that arose during diagnosis, treatment and terminal stages of her son’s illness. Includes an insight into how health care systems serve the terminally ill, the choices faced by families, and ways of providing the best possible care at home and maintaining the patient’s dignity until the end.

Buy from Amazon

 

The Secret C: Straight Talking About Cancer 

Julie Stokes

Cancer in the family is hard for everyone. How can adults explain when they themselves are trying to come to terms with the implications of the diagnosis? This book offers simple, honest explanations of what cancer is and how it affects someone. It also gives short explanations of treatments such as radiotherapy. It will help adults to answer difficult questions children need to ask.

Buy from Amazon

What About Me? When Brothers and Sisters Get Sick

Allan Peterkin

When a child is seriously ill, siblings experience mixed emotions and hurt feelings, and wonder about the future. In this heartwarming story, the narrator, a confused young girl, expresses all of these concerns when her brother goes to the hospital for an extended stay.

Buy from Amazon

When your Mum or Dad has cancer

Ann Couldrick and Graham Jeffrey

A short book for younger children (7+) to teenage children. It has an introduction for parents but then explains cancer in a simple way children can relate to. It also covers many questions children ask, such as will the person die and what exactly happens, but tackles the answers with insight and honesty.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

When Someone Has a Very Serious Illness: Children Can Learn to Cope with Loss and Change

Marge Heegaard

This book aims to help families communicate and evaluate a child’s understanding and feelings about family change while teaching basic concepts of illness and healthy coping skills.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 3rd December, 2022

Updated: 20th January, 2023

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When a parent has died

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Am I Like My Daddy?

Marcy Blesy

Join seven-year-old Grace on her journey through coping with the loss of her father while learning about the different ways that people grieve the loss of a loved one. In the process of learning about who her father was through the eyes of others, she learns about who she is today because of her father’s personality and love. This story is based in the United States but relevant to all. 

Buy from Amazon

I love you, Sunshine 

Addy Farmer and Darren Gate

'I love you, Sunshine' tells the story of how one dad dies by suicide and how it affects his eight year old daughter, Milly, and the rest of her family. It is a story of bereavement but it is also a story of love. It is intended as a way for all families bereaved by suicide to know that they are not alone; to build resilience through understanding; and to help take small steps forwards.

The story has been informed and developed through conversations with bereaved parents and with feedback from bereavement support practitioners at Child Bereavement UK. The charity has provided the important parental guidance notes to go alongside Milly’s story. These notes also point the way to support networks for families bereaved by suicide. The book is intended for distribution and sale to bereavement charities, to school counsellors and to anybody who might find it a useful resource. 

Available from www.addyfarmer.com where 5% of sales will go to Child Bereavement UK.

Is Daddy Coming Back in a Minute?

Elke Barber & Alex Barber

Alex is only three when his father has a heart attack. All on his own, Alex manages to get help but his beloved Daddy dies at the scene. Explains sudden death to pre-school children using words and illustrations they will understand.

Buy from Amazon

It's Okay to Feel Happy

David Peart

It’s Okay to Feel Happy is about a little girl who is finding it difficult to know if she can be excited, pleased or look forward to things now that her mummy has gone. Although she struggles with her loss, she soon learns that her mummy would want her to still enjoy her life.

Buy from Amazon

Mum’s Jumper

Jayde Perkin

If Mum has gone, how do you carry on? Missing her feels like a dark cloud that follows you around or like swimming to a shore that never comes any nearer. But memories are like a jumper that you can cuddle and wear. And Mum's jumper might be a way to keep her close.

Buy from Amazon

My Dad and Me

Kirsten Rees and Emma Block.

Created with input from two brothers supported by Child Bereavement UK.  

A lovely, downloadable, illustrated booklet in which children can write, draw, remember and talk about their memories of their dad.

Free to download from Child Bereavement UK

Ollie the Octopus and the Memory Treasures

Dr Karen Treisman

In a magical underwater forest lived a colourful and loveable Octopus called Ollie, who loved swimming with his friends and spending time with his mum and dad, Orla and Orson the Octopuses.

Until one day, when Orla started to get very sick. The doctors did everything they could to help her, but very sadly, Orla died. Ollie had so many thoughts and feelings spinning around in his head, and his heart was hurting -- what can Orson and Ollie's friends do to help?

Buy from Amazon

Only one of me - A love letter from Dad

Lisa Wells, Michelle Robinson and Tim Budgen 

Only One of Me - A love letter from Dad is a gentle and comforting book to share with a child when a father or father figure is not expected to live. Beautifully illustrated throughout, the book also includes an empty spread at the back for a family to share messages and a photo.  Also available in Welsh.

Buy from Graffeg Publishing

Only one of me - A love letter from Mum

Lisa Wells, Michelle Robinson and Tim Budgen 

Only One of Me - A love letter from Mum is a gentle and comforting book to share with a child when a mother or mother figure is not expected to live. Beautifully illustrated throughout, the book also includes an empty spread at the back for a family to share messages and a photo. Also available in Welsh. 

Buy from Graffeg Publishing 

Remembering

Dianne Leutner, Joan Gorman and Daniel Postgate.   

Part book, part scrapbook Remembering was created to help keep a child’s memories alive after the loss of someone special and to give children a place to return to whenever they wish.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

What Happened to Daddy’s Body?

Elke Barber & Alex Barber

Using ideas very young children can understand, this sequel to “Is Daddy Coming Back in a Minute?” sensitively and honestly explains what happens after death. It helps children to understand cremation, burial, and spreading the ashes. It reassures children that it is okay to be sad, but it’s also okay to be happy.

Buy from Amazon

When someone special dies - for under 7s

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

When someone special dies - for ages 7 to 11

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

Published: 2nd December, 2022

Updated: 13th March, 2023

Author:

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When a sibling has died

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A Star for Bobby

Helen Keenor   

A Star for Bobby talks directly to young children, using language and illustrations they can understand, about the death of a brother or sister, explaining why sometimes these things happen and how this may be making them feel. When the author’s baby son died shortly after birth, she wanted to explain to her two-year-old daughter what had happened in a way a little child could understand.

Buy from Sands

Always my Twin

Valerie R. Samuels    

Always My Twin is for young children who have experienced the death of their twin sibling before birth, after birth or as a young child. The book tells the story through the eyes of a young girl whose twin sister dies shortly after birth. She begins her story with sharing the womb with her twin, the joy of her family anticipating the arrival of twins, the family’s pain of losing one of their precious babies, the funeral, and her own expressions of grief for her twin’s death. It also talks about ways she and her family remember her twin.

Buy from Amazon

Andrew’s Rainbow

A book for children born into a family after the death of a sibling.

Available from the Scottish Cot Death Trust

Benny's Hat

Juliet Clare Bell

Benny’s Hat deals quietly with the huge subject of a sibling dying, from the viewpoint of the sister. It shows how children and young people might deal with serious illness and death differently to adults. The story gives adult readers examples of how to support children when a sibling is not expected to live, not only from the section for parents at the back, but also by watching Friz’s parents’ reactions to her behaviour.

Buy from Amazon

I Miss My Sister 

Sarah Courtauld 

Illustrated by Holly Surplice, this book is recommended for children aged 4-10 years old. The beautiful and expressive colour illustrations help to guide the child through the different emotions they may encounter following the death of a sibling, as well as the different categories of grief over a period of time. Awarded 'commended' in BMA Patient Information Awards 2010.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

My Baby Big Sister: A Book for Children Born Subsequent to a Pregnancy Loss

Cathy Blanford   

My Baby Big Sister was written for children who were born subsequent to a pregnancy loss or infant death. This book aims to help with the confusion these children often experience when they learn about the baby who died before them. This book does have some religious overtones at the start.

Buy from Amazon

My brother has died

Dr Jennifer Kelly

If your child has sadly had to face the death of their brother, then this booklet is designed to help you talk with your child about what has happened. It offers support in a simple that can help children as they adjust to life without their sibling. It can also be used as a basis to encourage discussion and to raise any questions they may have. It may also help them to voice their feelings.

Free to download from Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust

My sister has died

Dr Jennifer Kelly    

If your child has sadly had to face the death of their sister, then this booklet is designed to help you talk with your child about what has happened. It offers support in a simple that can help children as they adjust to life without their sibling. It can also be used as a basis to encourage discussion and to raise any questions they may have. It may also help them to voice their feelings.

Free to download from Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust

Remembering

Dianne Leutner, Joan Gorman and Daniel Postgate.   

Part book, part scrapbook Remembering was created to help keep a child’s memories alive after the loss of someone special and to give children a place to return to whenever they wish.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

Remembering My Brother 

Ginny Perkins and Leon Morris

In 1993, Chris Reed died. The author of this book worked with his family to put this book together which aims to show the importance of talking about grief and loss and remembering with love someone important who has died. It relates ordinary family events alongside an account of the family’s visit to Chris’s grave.

Buy from Amazon

Rory’s Star

Lynda Bathgate   

This book has been written to help parents explain the death of their baby or child to their siblings.

Available from the Scottish Cot Death Trust

Stewart's Tree - A Book for Brothers and Sisters When a Baby Dies Shortly after Birth

Cathy Campbell

Ellen’s new baby brother Stewart has been “lost”.  Ellen looks in all the cupboards for Stewart, and even in the washing machine – but then her family help her understand that Stewart has died and isn’t going to come back. Together they plant a tree for Stewart, so they will always have a place to remember him. This book for children aged 3+ helps explain sibling loss shortly after birth, and provides guidance for adults written by qualified clinicians.

Buy from Amazon

When someone special dies - for under 7s

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

When someone special dies - for ages 7 to 11

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

Where are you Lydie?

Emma Poore    

Warm and beautifully illustrated picture book for children about sibling loss and bereavement to support families through the grief of baby loss.

Buy from Emma Poore

Published: 1st December, 2022

Updated: 22nd February, 2023

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When someone is not expected to live (pre bereavement)

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With the End in Mind: How to Live and Die Well

Kathryn Mannix

Told through a series of beautifully crafted stories taken from nearly four decades of clinical practice, her book answers the most intimate questions about the process of dying with touching honesty and humanity. She makes a compelling case for the therapeutic power of approaching death not with trepidation but with openness, clarity and understanding.

Buy on Amazon

Published: 30th November, 2022

Updated: 7th March, 2023

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When a grandparent has died

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Grandad’s Bench

Addy Farmer

This is a beautiful, sensitively told story of love and loss and of a special relationship between grandfather and grandson.

Jake loves playing in Grandad’s workshop. One autumn day, Grandad teaches Jake how to chisel his name in a piece of wood, and afterwards they go to the park. Grandad shows Jake the tree that grew from an acorn he planted when he was a boy. Jake goes off to buy ice-creams and returns to find Grandad on the ground. The ambulance arrives. Mum and Jake go home without Grandad. Jake grieves for his grandfather all winter. But Grandad has left him his workshop and Jake wants to make something special. With Mum’s help, he does – a plaque for the bench under Grandad’s tree. It is spring; for the first time in months, Jake feels happy.

Buy from Amazon

Grandad's Ashes

Walter Smith

This beautifully illustrated picture book for children aged four to eight tells the story of four children who embark on an adventure to find their Grandad’s favourite place, they are faced with plenty of challenges on the way. Told with gentle humour, this is a charming story for children and an ideal resource for parents or professionals to read with a child as a way of broaching issues surrounding loss or bereavement.

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Granpa

John Burningham

Adorable Granpa gamely nurses his granddaughter’s dolls, eats her pretend strawberry-flavoured ice cream, takes her tobogganing in the snow, and falls in step with her imaginary plans to captain a ship to Africa like all good grandfathers should. Winner of the Kate Maschler Award, this poignant tale of friendship and loss is one children will long remember.

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My Grandma Died: A Child's Story about Grief and Loss

Lory Britain

A young child talks about the emotions felt after Grandma’s death. Includes a list entitled “Things I can do when someone I love dies.”

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Remembering

Dianne Leutner, Joan Gorman and Daniel Postgate.   

Part book, part scrapbook Remembering was created to help keep a child’s memories alive after the loss of someone special and to give children a place to return to whenever they wish.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

Suzie Goes to a Funeral

Charlotte Olson

Join Suzie as she goes to Grandma’s funeral and says goodbye. Suzie can help explain to a child who may be anxious about going to a funeral for the first time. A simple story to help and show what they might experience on this day.

Buy from Suzie Books

When someone special dies - for under 7s

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

When someone special dies - for ages 7 to 11

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

Published: 30th November, 2022

Updated: 8th December, 2022

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About death and grief

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A Monster Calls

Patrick Ness

12-year-old Conor O'Malley has a close bond with his seriously ill mother and maintains the household during her regular chemotherapy treatments at the hospital. His grandmother often visits, and suggests he come live with her in the event of his mother's death. One night, Conor is visited by a tree-like Monster at 12:07 AM which tells that he will tell three true stories to Conor; in return, the boy will tell his own story to the Monster about the truth behind his dreadful nightmare. A Monster Calls has also been adapted to film.
Buy from Amazon

A teenage guide to coping when someone dies (fold out A3 guide)

This resource can be folded down to fit in a pocket.  It contains practical advice and guidance for a young person managing confusing emotions when someone important in their life dies. Original text written by a young person whose father died.

The text can also be found in our section For Young People - what helps to move forward.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

Coping with grief when someone you love dies suddenly

This free booklet aims to help you understand emotions and feelings commonly suffered after a sudden death. It provides straightforward advice on how to cope and who can help you to recover.

Available to download from Sudden

Letters from the Grief Club

Beth French and Kate Moreton

A book containing letters from a diverse group of bereaved young adults, written to themselves on the day their loved one died. The letters reflect on their immediate grief whilst offering advice and support to their current selves. The editors, Beth French and Kate Moreton, have experienced loss themselves, with Beth losing her mum, and Kate losing her dad at the young age of 17.

Buy from Amazon

Living with loss: a grief guide for young people

This publication is written for adolescents, providing information, advice, and activities to support them when faced with the death of someone close to them.

The booklet, 'What Happens Next: A Funeral Guide for Young People' accompanies this guide.

Available to download from SeeSaw

Michael Rosen's Sad Book

Michael Rosen

A very personal story that speaks to adults as well as children. The author describes feeling sad after the death of his son and what he does to try to cope with it.

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Sometimes Life Sucks: When someone you love dies

Molly Carlile

Teenagers experience loss in all kinds of ways. Whether it’s the death of a grandparent, pet or school friend, a teen fatality, a peer with terminal illness, living without a mum or dad, or the death of a celebrity. Like everyone else teenagers also struggle to come to terms with their shock and grief. Full of great tips, stories and gentle advice, Sometimes Life Sucks helps teens to navigate their personal experience of grief.

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We Get It

Heather L. Servaty-Seib and David C. Fajgenbaum

A unique collection of 33 narrative by bereaved students and young adults in America, this book aims to help young adults who are grieving and provide guidance for those who seek to support them. It has been described as like having a group in a book.

Buy on Amazon

When someone special dies - for young people

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

You will be OK

Julia Stokes

In this honest, comforting and strength-building guide Julie Stokes, a clinical psychologist and founder of childhood bereavement charity Winston’s Wish, provides readers with the tools they need to navigate this tough and turbulent time. Packed with practical exercises, such as creating memory boxes and managing different kinds of memories using ‘memory stones’, this guide will give readers helpful ways to manage their grief so they can begin to move forward with life.

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Published: 30th November, 2022

Updated: 22nd February, 2023

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When a friend has died

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The Hare-Shaped Hole

John Dougherty

Hertle and Bertle were always a pair, though one was a turtle and one was a hare. They were utterly buddies, and best friends forever and whenever you looked, you would find them together until quite unexpectedly, the end came.

When Hertle disappears for good, Bertle can only see a 
Hertle-shaped hole where his friend should be. He pleads with it, get angry with it, but the hole still won't bring his Hertle back. It seems like hope is lost, until Gerda the kindly bear finds him. She explains that he must fill the hole with his memories of Hertle. And slowly Bertle begins to feel a little bit better. 

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Isaac and the Red Jumper

Amanda Seyderhelm

Isaac is heartbroken when his best friend Freddie dies. His house freezes. And his red jumper turns grey with grief. His friends try to console him, and it’s only after Isaac receives a special visit from Freddie that he understands love and friendship last forever, and are alive in spirit.

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My friend has died

Dr Jennifer Kelly 

If your child has sadly had to face the death of a friend, then this booklet is designed to help you talk with your child about what has happened. It offers support in a simple that can help children as they adjust to life without their friend. It can also be used as a basis to encourage discussion and to raise any questions they may have. It may also help them to voice their feelings.

Free to download from Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust

Remembering

Dianne Leutner, Joan Gorman and Daniel Postgate.   

Part book, part scrapbook Remembering was created to help keep a child’s memories alive after the loss of someone special and to give children a place to return to whenever they wish.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

Remembering Lucy: A Story about Loss and Grief in School

Sarah Helton

This touching short story will help children with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) aged 3+ understand feelings caused by death and loss, and the illustrations help convey the complex experience of bereavement in a simple and clear way. Included is a teacher’s guide to talking about bereavement, grief and loss, making this the ideal aid for teachers and support staff at SEND schools and colleges.

Buy from Amazon

When someone special dies - for under 7s

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

When someone special dies - for ages 7 to 11

Child Bereavement UK

This leaflet has been prepared with the help of bereaved families. It aims to help children when they have been bereaved. Also essential for A&E, Intensive care units and professionals who support families.

Download for free or buy from Child Bereavement UK

Published: 29th November, 2022

Updated: 22nd February, 2023

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Activity books and resources to support bereaved 11 - 18-year-olds

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Grief in Children: A Handbook for Adults

Atle Dyregov

This fully updated second edition of “Grief in Children” explains children’s understanding of death at different ages and gives a detailed outline of exactly how the adults around them can best help them cope.

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Someone Very Important Has Just Died: Immediate Help for People Caring for Children of All Ages at the Time of a Close Bereavement 

Mary Turner

This short book tackles the sensitive issues of what to tell children, how far to include them in the events immediately after the death, and how to tend to their physical and emotional needs. The material is suitable for anyone regardless of their background and beliefs, and is supplemented with information on where to go to obtain longer term bereavement support.

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Supporting Teenagers Through Grief And Loss: Practical Ideas & Creative Approaches

Anna Jacobs

A wealth of advice and helpful suggestions for those helping children through bereavement and loss. This book gives an overview of different behaviours you may encounter in school and how to respond, as well as discussing questions children may ask and how to answer them. Children's understanding of death varies according to stage of development and the author provides guidance on age-appropriate, honest responses along with a toolkit of creative and arts activities to help children examine and understand their emotions, physical feelings and memories.

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Talking About Death: A Dialogue Between Parent and Child

Earl Grollman

This guide to helping children cope with death includes an illustrated, read-along story, and discusses coping with a child’s anger, denial or guilt, and how to discuss funerals, cemeteries and grief.

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The Little Book of Bereavement for Schools

Ian Gilbert

A short, personal account of the way various schools tried to support the author’s three children after the death of their mother.  A book for a parent to take into any school which is seeking to support grieving pupils. It opens with a brief 15-point guide which would be a helpful starting point.

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Tough Stuff Journal - Someone has died

Pete English

Designed in free form for a bereaved young person to work through on their own or with a trusted adult, this journal asks questions and invites the young person to express feelings and emotions that are otherwise difficult to articulate. Useful for schools, youth leaders, parents or anyone working with a bereaved child or young person from 9 to 13 years old.

Available to buy from AtaLoss.org

When your partner dies: Supporting your children

Child Bereavement UK

A short booklet which offers guidance for a surviving partner when parenting their bereaved children as well as coping with their own grief. It was developed with help from bereaved families and was originally funded by BBC Children in Need. Also useful for GP surgeries, Health visitors etc.

Download a copy here

You Just Don’t Understand: Supporting bereaved teenagers

Helen Mackinnon

The transition from childhood to adulthood can be a challenging process at the best of times. This booklet aims to help you understand what is normal adolescent development, and to recognise the additional problems teenagers may face if someone important dies during these years.

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Published: 29th November, 2022

Updated: 8th December, 2022

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Special educational needs

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Remembering Lucy: A Story about Loss and Grief in School

Sarah Helton

This touching short story will help children with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) aged 3+ understand feelings caused by death and loss, and the illustrations help convey the complex experience of bereavement in a simple and clear way. Included is a teacher’s guide to talking about bereavement, grief and loss, making this the ideal aid for teachers and support staff at SEND schools and colleges.

Buy from Amazon

Finding Your Own Way to Grieve

Karla Helbert 

A creative activity workbook for grieving children and teens on the Autistic Spectrum. The clear concise language will help adults communicate with children around the abstract concepts of death and grief.

Buy from Amazon

Let's Talk About Death

Down’s Syndrome Scotland

A booklet about death and funerals for young people and adults who have a learning disability. Includes some simple text on why people die, what happens at funerals and possible grief reactions. Photographs support the text.

Download from Down's Syndrome Scotland

When Dad Died

Hollins and Sireling

This book take an honest and straightforward approach to death and grief in the family. The pictures tell the death of a parent in a simple but moving way. The approach is non-denominational. Suitable for young people and adults with a learning disability.

Buy from Books Beyond Words

When Mum Died

Hollins and Sireling

This book takes an honest and straightforward approach to death and grief in the family. The pictures tell the death of a parent in a simple but moving way. “When Mum Died” shows a burial. The approach is non-denominational. Suitable for young people and adults with a learning disability.

Buy from Books Beyond Words

When Somebody Dies

Hollins and Sireling    

Using pictures, the book tells the story of Mary who is very upset when someone she loves dies. She is encouraged by a friend to go to regular bereavement counselling sessions, which help her to feel less sad. John also loses someone he is close to. He is given comfort and companionship by friends and is shown learning to cope better with life. Suitable for young people and adults with a learning disability.

Buy from Books Beyond Words

Published: 28th November, 2022

Updated: 8th December, 2022

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When someone is not expected to live (pre-bereavement)

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As Big as it Gets

Julie Stokes and Diana Crossley

This booklet aims to help families cope with the serious illness of a parent or child. It provides a range of ideas for parents and carers so that they may feel more able to explain to their children what is happening. The booklet also includes some suggestions about what parents might say to children and how to offer support.

Buy from Winston's Wish

Dancing At The Pity Party

Tyler Feder

Part poignant cancer memoir and part humorous reflection on a motherless life, this debut graphic novel is extraordinarily comforting and engaging. From before her mother's first oncology appointment through the stages of her cancer to the funeral, sitting shiva, and afterward, when she must try to make sense of her life as a motherless daughter, Tyler Feder tells her story in this graphic novel that is full of piercing-but also often funny-details. She shares the important post-death firsts, such as celebrating holidays without her mom, the utter despair of cleaning out her mom's closet, ending old traditions and starting new ones, and the sting of having the "I've got to tell Mom about this" instinct and not being able to act on it. This memoir, bracingly candid and sweetly humorous, is for anyone struggling with loss who just wants someone to get it. 

Buy from Amazon

My Parent Has Cancer and it Really Sucks

Marc and Maya Silver

This book provides real-life advice from real-life teens designed to help teens live with a parent who is fighting cancer. This book gives practical guidance that includes: How to talk about the diagnosis (and what does diagnosis even mean, anyway?) The best outlets for stress (punching a wall is not a great one, but should it happen, there are instructions for a patch job) How to deal with friends (especially one the ones with 'pity eyes') Whether to tell the teachers and what they should know (how not to get embarrassed in class) What happens in a therapy session and how to find a support group if you want one.

Buy from Amazon

When your Mum or Dad has cancer

Ann Couldrick and Graham Jeffrey

A short book for younger children (7+) to teenage children. It has an introduction for parents but then explains cancer in a simple way children can relate to. It also covers many questions children ask, such as will the person die and what exactly happens, but tackles the answers with insight and honesty.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

Published: 28th November, 2022

Updated: 22nd February, 2023

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When a parent has died

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Dancing At The Pity Party

Tyler Feder

Part poignant cancer memoir and part humorous reflection on a motherless life, this debut graphic novel is extraordinarily comforting and engaging. From before her mother's first oncology appointment through the stages of her cancer to the funeral, sitting shiva, and afterward, when she must try to make sense of her life as a motherless daughter, Tyler Feder tells her story in this graphic novel that is full of piercing-but also often funny-details. She shares the important post-death firsts, such as celebrating holidays without her mom, the utter despair of cleaning out her mom's closet, ending old traditions and starting new ones, and the sting of having the "I've got to tell Mom about this" instinct and not being able to act on it. This memoir, bracingly candid and sweetly humorous, is for anyone struggling with loss who just wants someone to get it. 

Buy from Amazon

How To Make Friends With The Dark

Kathleen Glasgow

It's always been Tiger and her mother against the world. Then, on a day like any other, Tiger's mother dies. Now it's Tiger, alone. And she must learn to make friends with the dark.

Buy from Amazon

Rory’s Story

Anna Jacobs

Rory is an adolescent boy who is struggling with the loss of his mother. Confused and bullied at school, he attempts to run away and finally returns to face his feelings. This therapeutic story is a gritty, readable story that teenagers will relate to; it explores the teenage experience of loss and bereavement; it can be used to support young people who have experienced loss; it can help teenagers understand the needs of their peers when loss occurs; it has notes for discussion on the themes of each chapter.

This story can be used in conjunction with the practical workbook 'Supporting Teenagers through Grief & Loss'. This useful tool which will help teachers, therapists and carers to support and understand the needs of adolescents facing loss.

Buy from Amazon

Still Here with Me: Teenagers and Children on Losing a Parent

Suzanne Sjoqvist

This book is a moving and thoughtful anthology of the experiences of thirty children and teenagers who have lost a parent. In their own words, children and young people of a variety of ages talk openly and honestly about losing their mother or father. They describe feelings of pain, loss and anger, the struggle to cope with the embarrassed reactions and silence of others, and the difficulties involved in rebuilding their lives. They also share happy and loving memories of their parents, and talk about the importance of remembering while learning to accept their parent’s deaths.

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Published: 27th November, 2022

Updated: 22nd February, 2023

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When a sibling has died

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A Manual for Heartache

Cathy Rentzenbrink

When Cathy was still a teenager, her happy family was torn apart after an accident. In A Manual for Heartache she describes how she learnt to live with grief and loss and find joy in the world again. She explores how to cope with life at its most difficult and overwhelming and how we can emerge from suffering forever changed, but filled with hope. It is a moving, warm and uplifting book that offers solidarity and comfort to anyone going through a painful time, whatever it might be. It's a book that will help to soothe an aching heart and assure its readers that they're not alone.

Buy from Amazon

Love Letters to the Dead

Ava Dellaira

It begins as an assignment for English class: Write a letter to a dead person. Laurel chooses Kurt Cobain because her sister, May, loved him. And he died young, just like May did. Soon, Laurel has a notebook full of letters to people like Janis Joplin, Amy Winehouse, Amelia Earhart, Heath Ledger, and more - though she never gives a single one of them to her teacher. She writes about starting high school, navigating new friendships, falling in love for the first time, learning to live with her splintering family. And, finally, about the abuse she suffered while May was supposed to be looking out for her. Only then, once Laurel has written down the truth about what happened to herself, can she truly begin to accept what happened to May. And only when Laurel has begun to see her sister as the person she was, lovely and amazing and deeply flawed, can she begin to discover her own path.

Buy from Amazon

The Death and Life of Charlie St Cloud

Ben Sherwood

As a boy, Charlie St Cloud narrowly survived a car crash that killed Sam, his little brother. Years later, still unable to recover from his loss, Charlie has taken a job tending to the lawns and monuments in the New England cemetery where Sam is buried. When he meets Tess Carroll, a captivating, adventurous woman in training for a solo sailing trip around the globe, they discover a beautiful and uncommon connection that, after a violent storm at sea, eventually forces them to choose between death and life, past and present, holding on and letting go. This was also adapted into a film, starring Zac Efron.

Buy from Amazon

The Last Act of Love

Cathy Rentzenbrink

The Last Act of Love is a book about Cathy's own relationship with her brother, Matty. In 1990, when Matty was just weeks away from getting his GCSE results, he was in a hit and run accident and left in a permanent vegetative state. This book is the love that came before this event and what happens in the aftermath of tragedy.

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The Sky is Everywhere

Jandy Nelson

Seventeen-year-old Lennie Walker spends her time tucked safely and happily in the shadow of her fiery older sister, Bailey. It tells the story of an American high school girl, Lennie Walker, struggling to cope with the sudden death of her older sister. Lennie becomes romantically involved both with her sister's former fiancé, who shares Lennie's grief and loss, and with a new boy in town, who shares Lennie's love of music. Ultimately, Lennie must choose between the two relationships. This book has also been adapted to film.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 26th November, 2022

Updated: 13th March, 2023

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When a grandparent has died

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Coco

Aspiring musician Miguel, confronted with his family's ancestral ban on music, enters the Land of the Dead to find his great-great-grandfather, a legendary singer.

Film: Coco

The Farewell

A headstrong Chinese-American woman returns to China when her beloved grandmother is diagnosed with terminal cancer. Billi struggles with her family's decision to keep grandma in the dark about her own illness as they all stage an impromptu wedding to see grandma one last time.

Film: The Farewell

The Loose Ends List

Carrie Firestone

As Maddie readies herself for college, she learns of her grandmother's terminal cancer. Gram is taking charge of her final days by taking the family on a farewell cruise. Despite the extravagance, Maddie can't seem to come to grips with losing such a significant person in her life. This would also be relevant for pre-bereavement.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 25th November, 2022

Updated: 13th March, 2023

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When a friend has died

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Bridge to Terabithia

Katherine Paterson

Jess Aarons wants to be the fastest boy in the class, but when a girl named Leslie Burke moves into the neighbouring farm his life changes forever. Even though she runs faster than him, Jess begins to think Leslie might be okay - she's clever and funny and not a bit soppy. And it is Leslie who invents Terabithia, the secret country on an island across the creek where he can escape his troublesome family. The only way to reach Terabithia is by rope-swing where Jess and Leslie become King and Queen, defeating giants, sharing stories and dreams, and plotting against their enemies. They are invincible - until tragedy strikes. It is more dreadful than anything Jess had ever dreamed of, but as he struggles to cope with his grief and anger, he finds that his family value him more than he'd thought and that, still King, he could even save Terabithia for the future. Bridge to Terabithia has also been adapted into a film.

Buy on Amazon

The Fault in Our Stars

John Green

The Fault In Our Stars is about a young teenage girl who has been diagnosed with lung cancer and attends a cancer support group. Hazel is 16 and is reluctant to go to the support group, but she soon realises that it was a good idea, befriending another young person there. The Fault in Our Stars has also been adapted into a film.

Buy from Amazon

Vicky Angel

Jacqueline Wilson

Jade is used to living in the shadow of her best friend, Vicky. Vicky's sparkly, hilarious and full of life. And, she's certainly not going to let a small thing like being dead stop her from living life to the full. But as Jade attempts to move on, Vicky is determined to make her presence felt. Vicky Angel is a heart-warming and hilarious read that explores grief, guilt and confidence. A moving story that young readers will adore.

Buy from Amazon

When a Friend Dies: A book for teens about grieving and healing

Marilyn E Gootman

When a Friend Dies offers sensitive advice and genuine understanding for teens coping with grief and loss. The death of a friend is a wrenching event for anyone at any age and can spark feelings that range from sadness to guilt to anxiety. Teenagers especially need help coping with grief and loss. This sensitive book answers questions grieving teens often have, like How should I be acting? How long will this last? and What if I can’t handle my grief on my own? The book also addresses the complicated emotions that can accompany the death of an acquaintance, as opposed to a close friend.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 24th November, 2022

Updated: 13th March, 2023

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Special educational needs

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Finding Your Own Way to Grieve

Karla Helbert 

A creative activity workbook for grieving children and teens on the Autistic Spectrum. The clear concise language will help adults communicate with children around the abstract concepts of death and grief.

Buy from Amazon

Let's Talk About Death

Down’s Syndrome Scotland

A booklet about death and funerals for young people and adults who have a learning disability. Includes some simple text on why people die, what happens at funerals and possible grief reactions. Photographs support the text.

Download from Down's Syndrome Scotland

When Dad Died

Hollins and Sireling

This book take an honest and straightforward approach to death and grief in the family. The pictures tell the death of a parent in a simple but moving way. The approach is non-denominational. Suitable for young people and adults with a learning disability.

Buy from Books Beyond Words

When Mum Died

Hollins and Sireling

This book takes an honest and straightforward approach to death and grief in the family. The pictures tell the death of a parent in a simple but moving way. “When Mum Died” shows a burial. The approach is non-denominational. Suitable for young people and adults with a learning disability.

Buy from Books Beyond Words

When Somebody Dies

Hollins and Sireling    

Using pictures, the book tells the story of Mary who is very upset when someone she loves dies. She is encouraged by a friend to go to regular bereavement counselling sessions, which help her to feel less sad. John also loses someone he is close to. He is given comfort and companionship by friends and is shown learning to cope better with life. Suitable for young people and adults with a learning disability.

Buy from Books Beyond Words

Published: 23rd November, 2022

Updated: 8th December, 2022

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Festival and Event Volunteer

Various dates | Nationwide opportunities | 4 hours

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We're seeking friendly, approachable people to volunteer 4-hours of their time to help scan tickets and sell wristbands and raffle tickets on the day in aid of Child Bereavement UK. In return they'll be able to enjoy the rest of the event for free! Volunteers will be fully briefed and supported both before and during the event by Child Bereavement UK staff.

Terms
Time-specific shift of four hours will be given ahead of your shift.

Based
We have a range of festival and event volunteering opportunities across the UK. View the upcoming festival and event dates.

Additional
We encourage diversity in all our volunteer roles. If you have a disability or additional need and have concerns as to your ability to volunteer, please contact us to see how we can support you.

Essential skills required

  • A friendly and approachable personality
  • Aged over 18 years (children may be able to help a volunteering adult at selected events, however they will not be listed as a volunteer and will attend the event at the responsible adult’s own risk). 
  • Reliable
  • Confident with basic technology, such as using a card machine (training will be provided)

Ideal skills required

  • Confident working with the general public

Key activities

  • Selling wristbands and raffle tickets 
  • Scanning entry tickets

What you’ll get out of the experience

  • Free entry to the event
  • Opportunity to meet new people
  • Priority access to other volunteering positions across the charity
  • Being part of raising funds to help Child Bereavement UK support families and children to rebuild their lives following bereavement.

Key working relationships

  • Fundraising team 
  • Festival goers
  • Other volunteers

Equality and diversity

The Charity is committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

We encourage diversity and equality in all our volunteer roles. If you have a disability or additional need and would like to discuss this with us prior to signing up, please email: [email protected] to see how we can support you. 

Terms and conditions

This job profile is not intended to be a complete list of duties and responsibilities but is a guide for information. It may be reviewed and changed in the light of the evolving needs of the Charity and as part of the volunteer’s development. Any changes will be made following discussion with the post holder.

Apply on our portal

Volunteers help to make our vital work possible

Published: 21st November, 2022

Updated: 1st March, 2023

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Cheer Point Volunteers - Great North Run

10 September | Newcastle | 4 to 6 hours

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We are looking for warm, friendly volunteers with the ability to energise our cheer points at events. By joining our cheer point team, you’ll be helping to motivate our runners to make it around the course. You’ll also have a great view of the event and the chance to soak up the amazing atmosphere. Please sign up and help support our team.

Department
Fundraising 

Terms
4 to 6 hours.

Based
Great North Run (Newcastle): 10 September 2023

Essential skills required   

  • A friendly and approachable personality
  • Plenty of enthusiasm

Support given              

  • Staff on site to support and brief you on the day
  • A written brief with detailed instructions before the event
  • Everything you need to cheer on our participants with bang-bang sticks, pom-poms and whistles
  • A Child Bereavement UK branded volunteer t-shirt
  • Refreshments on the day.

What you’ll get out of the experience

  • Meet new people and make a huge difference to our runners by supporting them to reach the finish line.
  • Enjoy the friendly and exciting atmosphere and get a great view of the race.
  • Cheering on Child Bereavement UK fundraisers who are taking on a challenge to raise vital funds, helping us to support bereaved children, parents and families to rebuild their lives, when a child grieves or when a child dies.

Key working relationships
Fundraising Team 

Equality and diversity
The Charity is committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

We encourage diversity and equality in all our volunteer roles. If you have a disability or additional need and would like to discuss this with us prior to signing up, please email: [email protected] to see how we can support you. 

Terms and conditions
This job profile is not intended to be a complete list of duties and responsibilities but is a guide for information. It may be reviewed and changed in the light of the evolving needs of the Charity and as part of the volunteer’s development. Any changes will be made following discussion with the post holder.

Apply Now

Published: 20th November, 2022

Updated: 9th January, 2023

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Cheer Point Volunteers - Royal Parks Half Marathon

8 October | London | 4 to 6 hours

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We are looking for warm, friendly volunteers with the ability to energise our cheer points at events. By joining our cheer point team, you’ll be helping to motivate our runners to make it around the course. You’ll also have a great view of the event and the chance to soak up the amazing atmosphere. Please sign up and help support our team.

Department
Fundraising 

Terms
4 to 6 hours.

Based
Royal Parks Half Marathon (London): 8 October 2023

Essential skills required   

  • A friendly and approachable personality
  • Plenty of enthusiasm

Support given              

  • Staff on site to support and brief you on the day
  • A written brief with detailed instructions before the event
  • Everything you need to cheer on our participants with bang-bang sticks, pom-poms and whistles
  • A Child Bereavement UK branded volunteer t-shirt
  • Refreshments on the day.

What you’ll get out of the experience

  • Meet new people and make a huge difference to our runners by supporting them to reach the finish line.
  • Enjoy the friendly and exciting atmosphere and get a great view of the race.
  • Cheering on Child Bereavement UK fundraisers who are taking on a challenge to raise vital funds, helping us to support bereaved children, parents and families to rebuild their lives, when a child grieves or when a child dies.

Key working relationships
Fundraising Team 

Equality and diversity
The Charity is committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

We encourage diversity and equality in all our volunteer roles. If you have a disability or additional need and would like to discuss this with us prior to signing up, please email: [email protected] to see how we can support you. 

Terms and conditions
This job profile is not intended to be a complete list of duties and responsibilities but is a guide for information. It may be reviewed and changed in the light of the evolving needs of the Charity and as part of the volunteer’s development. Any changes will be made following discussion with the post holder.

Apply Now

Published: 19th November, 2022

Updated: 9th January, 2023

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Join or form a Volunteer Fundraising Group

Flexible dates, locations and volunteering time

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Volunteer fundraising groups are a way for Child Bereavement UK supporters to come together and raise funds in aid of the charity. Fundraising groups can be formed by an individual with friends and family members or you can join an existing group. All groups require a minimum of three members. Groups meet at times and locations to suit group members and decide between them how they will fundraise. 

Groups will be supported by a Child Bereavement UK Volunteer Co-ordinator who will help the group become established and decide on group roles. This will include providing fundraising materials and merchandise such as collection buckets and wristbands, information about the charity, and ideas on how to make the most out of the group’s fundraising activities. Volunteer groups are an excellent way to collaborate with people in your area and utilise any ideas and skills you may have.

Based
UK-wide opportunities

Department
Fundraising

Terms
Volunteers will be supported by a Child Bereavement UK Volunteer Co-ordinator to introduce new volunteers to the group. Group meetings and light training will be offered to help establish or support a group. Volunteer fundraising groups are encouraged to hold two or more events a year which will require volunteers to meet and communicate on an ad hoc basis. Groups run by volunteers will follow Child Bereavement UK's fundraising procedures and UK fundraising legislation, as communicated and supported by a Child Bereavement UK Volunteer Coordinator.

Essential skills 

  • Team player
  • Friendly and approachable with good communication skills
  • Organised and dedicated

Support given

  • Volunteer T-shirts
  • Resources for events
  • Staff guidance and support along the way
  • Support of other group members

What you’ll get out of the experience

  • Meet other local volunteers with similar interests and make new friends
  • Be able to implement your own ideas and use creative thinking
  • Develop your event planning, fundraising, communication, and team building skills
  • Raising funds to help enable Child Bereavement UK to support children and families to rebuild their lives following bereavement

Key working relationships

  • Other volunteer group members
  • Child Bereavement UK Volunteer Coordinator
  • Fundraising department
  • Local community

Equality and diversity
The Charity is committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

We encourage diversity and equality in all our volunteer roles. If you have a disability or additional need and would like to discuss this with us prior to signing up, please email: [email protected] to see how we can support you. 

Terms and conditions
This job profile is not intended to be a complete list of duties and responsibilities but is a guide for information. It may be reviewed and changed in the light of the evolving needs of the Charity and as part of the volunteer’s development. Any changes will be made following discussion with the post holder.

Apply on our portal

Published: 18th November, 2022

Updated: 9th January, 2023

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Donation Tin Collector Volunteer

Flexible dates, locations and volunteering time

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We’re looking for warm and friendly volunteers to support Child Bereavement UK in their local area by asking businesses to display one or more of our collection tins. You will be working in our local community, helping raise awareness and funds for Child Bereavement UK. Collection tin volunteers will be supplied with kits containing collection tins, thank you cards, and everything you need to get started. As part of the role, you will find local businesses that are happy to help and register them, replace tins when they become full, and thank businesses on behalf of Child Bereavement UK by giving out certificates and thank you cards. You will bank any money collected and keep a record of where our tins are located, working closely with Child Bereavement UK’s Volunteer Co-Ordinator. Every collection tin counts as every penny donated makes a big difference to our work supporting bereaved families. 

Based
In your local area/nationwide

Department
Volunteering

Terms
Flexible volunteering hours. 
Collecting tins and paying in money may take you a couple of hours a week (on average) depending on how many tins you choose to distribute, and their locations. Tins will need replacing at different rates so will be done on an ad-hoc basis, rather than at set times and with set hours. Volunteers will need access to a NatWest bank in order to pay in donations. 

Essential skills 

  • Good communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with businesses
  • Organised
  • Excellent record keeping

Support given

  • Training and regular check ins 
  • A collection tin volunteer pack will be sent you containing tins and other materials

What you’ll get out of the experience

  • Developing your administrative skills
  • Experience developing and maintaining partnerships
  • Raising funds to help support bereaved children, parents and families to rebuild their lives.

Key working relationships

  • Volunteer Coordinator
  • Fundraising

Equality and diversity
The Charity is committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

We encourage diversity and equality in all our volunteer roles. If you have a disability or additional need and would like to discuss this with us prior to signing up, please email: [email protected] to see how we can support you. 

Terms and conditions
This job profile is not intended to be a complete list of duties and responsibilities but is a guide for information. It may be reviewed and changed in the light of the evolving needs of the Charity and as part of the volunteer’s development. Any changes will be made following discussion with the post holder.

Apply on our portal

Published: 17th November, 2022

Updated: 9th January, 2023

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When a parent has died

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A Half Baked Idea

Olivia Potts

At the moment her mother died, Olivia Potts was baking a cake, badly. She was trying to impress the man who would later become her husband. Afterwards, grief pushed Olivia into the kitchen. She came home from her job as a criminal barrister miserable and tired, and baked soda bread, pizza, and chocolate banana cake. Her cakes sank and her custard curdled. But she found comfort in jams and solace in pies, and what began as a distraction from grief became a way of building a life outside grief, a way of surviving, and making sense of her life without her mum. 

Buy from Amazon

Big Boys (Television Series)

Written by comedian Jack Rooke and loosely based on his own experiences, Big Boys tells the story of two mismatched boys who strike up an unlikely friendship when they're thrown together at university, following the death of one of their fathers.

Watch on Channel 4

Crying in H Mart

Michelle Zauner

From the indie rockstar Japanese Breakfast, an unflinching, powerful, deeply moving memoir about growing up mixed-race, Korean food, losing her Korean mother, and forging her own identity. It was her mother's diagnosis of terminal pancreatic cancer, when Michelle was twenty-five, that forced a reckoning with her identity and brought her to reclaim the gifts of taste, language, and history her mother had given her.

Buy from Amazon

Grief Is The Thing With Feathers

Max Porter

He comes with a crackling of feathers and a smell of decay. He comes like the worst thing you could ever imagine, like something you should never have to imagine, he comes when you need him. He is a reminder, a companion, a harbinger, a scruffy homeless layabout, a friend. He is Crow.  

In a London flat, two young boys face the unbearable sadness of their mother's sudden death. Their father, a Ted Hughes scholar and scruffy romantic, imagines a future of well-meaning visitors and emptiness. In this moment of despair they are visited by Crow - antagonist, trickster, healer, babysitter. This sentimental bird is drawn to the grieving family becoming the mouthpiece for their sorrow, an echo of what cannot be said. Slowly, as the months pass, they become familiar with Crow and his odd companionship and almost imperceptibly, they begin to heal. 

Buy from Amazon

Rory’s Story

Anna Jacobs

Rory is an adolescent boy who is struggling with the loss of his mother. Confused and bullied at school, he attempts to run away and finally returns to face his feelings. This therapeutic story is a gritty, readable story that teenagers will relate to; it explores the teenage experience of loss and bereavement; it can be used to support young people who have experienced loss; it can help teenagers understand the needs of their peers when loss occurs; it has notes for discussion on the themes of each chapter.

This story can be used in conjunction with the practical workbook 'Supporting Teenagers through Grief & Loss'. This useful tool which will help teachers, therapists and carers to support and understand the needs of adolescents facing loss.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 16th November, 2022

Updated: 22nd February, 2023

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Sudden death

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A Terrible Thing Happened

Margaret M Holmes

Sherman saw the most terrible thing happen. At first he tried to forget about it, but soon something inside him started to bother him. He felt nervous for no reason. Sometimes his stomach hurt. He had bad dreams. And he started to feel angry and do mean things, which got him in trouble. Then he met Ms. Maple, who helped him talk about the terrible thing that he had tried to forget. Now Sherman is feeling much better.

This gently told and tenderly illustrated story is for children who have witnessed any kind of violent or traumatic episode, including physical abuse, school or gang violence, accidents, homicide, suicide, and natural disasters such as floods or fire.

An afterword by Sasha J. Mudlaff written for parents and other caregivers offers extensive suggestions for helping traumatized children, including a list of other sources that focus on specific events.

Buy from Amazon

Coping with grief when someone you love dies suddenly

This free booklet aims to help you understand emotions and feelings commonly suffered after a sudden death. It provides straightforward advice on how to cope and who can help you to recover.

Available to download from Sudden

Don't Let Them Tell You How to Grieve: Lines to let you know you are not alone

Gina Claye   

Poems written by a mother who experienced the sudden deaths of her 19-year-old daughter by suicide and her 32-year-old son from encephalitis.

Buy from Amazon

Is Daddy Coming Back in a Minute?

Elke Barber & Alex Barber

Alex is only three when his father has a heart attack. All on his own, Alex manages to get help but his beloved Daddy dies at the scene. Explains sudden death to pre-school children using words and illustrations they will understand.

Buy from Amazon

Someone has died in road crash

Mary Williams OBE and Caroline Chisholm   

Two young characters, who have been bereaved by a road crash, narrate the colourful book by giving caring and helpful tips. Tackling all the tough questions that children may want to ask, the book deals with the crash itself, funerals, police investigation and the possible emotions a child may experience. There is also an additional download with tips for adults on how to use the book with young children.

Download from Brake

Someone has died suddenly

Mary Williams and Steve Fraser

This colourful book, prepared in partnership with bereavement specialists, is for suddenly bereaved children and adults to read together. It helps children understand their strong feelings and gives suggestions to help them cope. It provides straightforward information about practical things that happen after a sudden death, such as a post-mortem examination. There is also an additional download with tips for adults on how to use the book with young children.

Available to download from Sudden

When Something Terrible Happens: Children Can Learn to Cope with Grief

Marge Heegaard

Terrible things can happen to children. Traumatic events in the lives of their families, their friends or in the world leave then feeling confused, insecure and frightened. There are floods, earthquakes, and sometimes people cause violence and trauma. This is a workbook designed to help children understand and deal with overwhelming feelings from loss and change.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 16th November, 2022

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Bereavement by suicide

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A Special Scar: The experiences of people bereaved by suicide

Alison Wertheimer

Written and researched by a bereaved sibling, this book covers the losses of siblings, parents, children and friends.

Buy from Amazon

After a Suicide: A Workbook for Grieving Kids

Dougy Centre

In this hands-on, interactive workbook, children who have been exposed to a suicide can learn from other grieving kids. The workbook includes drawing activities, puzzles, stories, advice from other kids and helpful suggestions for how to navigate the grief process after a suicide death.

Buy from Amazon

Beyond the Rough Rock: Supporting a Child Who Has Been Bereaved Through Suicide

Di Stubbs and Julie Stokes

This booklet offers practical advice for families in the immediate days and weeks when suicide has been the cause of death. It aims to give parents and professionals the confidence to involve children in discussions about the nature of a death by suicide.

Buy from Amazon

Don't Let Them Tell You How to Grieve: Lines to let you know you are not alone

Gina Claye   

Poems written by a mother who experienced the sudden deaths of her 19-year-old daughter by suicide and her 32-year-old son from encephalitis.

Buy from Amazon

Help is at hand: A resource for people bereaved by suicide

Department of Health 

This free guide is for people who are affected by suicide or other sudden, traumatic death. It aims firstly to help people who are unexpectedly bereaved in this way. It also provides information for healthcare and other professionals who come into contact with bereaved people, to assist them in providing help and to suggest how they themselves may find support if they need it.

Download from the Department of Health

I Love You, Sunshine

Addy Farmer and illustrated by Darren Gate

I Love You, Sunshine tells the story of how one dad dies by suicide and how it affects his eight year old daughter, Milly, and the rest of her family. It is a story of bereavement but it is also a story of love. It is intended as a way for all families bereaved by suicide to know that they are not alone; to build resilience through understanding; and to help take small steps forwards.

The story has been informed and developed through conversations with bereaved parents and with feedback from bereavement support practitioners at Child Bereavement UK. The charity has provided the important parental guidance notes to go alongside Milly’s story. These notes also point the way to support networks for families bereaved by suicide. The book is intended for distribution and sale to bereavement charities, to school counsellors and to anybody who might find it a useful resource.

Available from Addy Farmer where 5% of all sales will go to Child Bereavement UK or Buy from Amazon

Losing Liam

Sue Bracknell   

Poems written following the author's son’s suicide in 2003, helping her to connect with him and to grieve. 

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

Luna’s Red Hat

Emmi Smid

This book tells the story of Luna, whose mum died by suicide one year ago and she still finds it difficult to understand why. Dad talks to her and explains what happened, and together they think about all the happy memories they have of Mum. This book is designed to be read with children age 6+ who have experienced the loss of a loved one by suicide. It includes a guide for parents and professionals.

Buy from Amazon

Red Chocolate Elephants: For children bereaved by suicide - Book & DVD 

Diana C.Sands  

Provides adults with the understanding and assistance to support primary school aged children experiencing the death of a family member to suicide. It is not intended for children to read on their own, but as an assisted reading activity with an adult, reading a few pages and taking the time to explore concerns. Provides a sensitive and appropriate means of engaging with children around the difficult question of death through suicide.

Buy from Child Bereavement UK

The Little Flower Bulb

Eleanor Gormally

The Little Flower Bulb tells the story of Jamie, his mum and his twin sisters, and of how Jamie comes to deal with the death of his father. Suitable for children aged 3-8, this beautifully illustrated book will be helpful for parents when talking to children bereaved by the suicide of a close relative.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 16th November, 2022

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Murder and manslaughter

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A Grief Like No Other: Surviving the Violent Death of Someone you Love

Kathleen O’Hara 

Violent death brings to survivors a different kind of grief. From intense feelings of guilt, anger and post-traumatic stress, to years spent dealing with the legal ramifications, those left behind in the wake of violence have to contend with unique circumstances that are different from a “natural” death.

Buy from Amazon

After a Murder: A Workbook for Grieving Kids

Dougy Centre

Through the stories, thoughts and feelings of other kids who have experienced a murder, this hands-on workbook allows children to see that they are not alone in their feelings and experiences. The workbook includes drawing activities, puzzles and word games to help explain confusing elements specific to a murder, such as the police, media and legal system.

Buy from Amazon

From A Clear Blue Sky: Surviving the Mountbatten Bomb

Timothy Knatchbull

On the August bank holiday weekend in 1979, 14-year-old Timothy Knatchbull went on a boat trip off the shore of Mullaghmore in County Sligo, Ireland, with many members of his family. By noon, an IRA bomb had destroyed the boat, leaving four dead.

The author survived, but his grandparents, a family friend, and his 14-year-old twin brother did not. 

This is a story of recovery, not just from physical wounds but deep emotional trauma. Knatchbull and his parents were too badly injured to attend the funerals of those killed, a sadness that intensified their profound sense of loss.

Buy from Amazon

Hope Beyond the Headlines: Supporting a Child Bereaved through Murder or Manslaughter

Di Stubbs and Kate Gardner

This new book offers practical advice for families in the immediate days, weeks and months following a murder. It is written for both parents and professionals, giving them confidence to involve children and young people in understanding and managing the particular difficulties and complexities that so often surround a death by murder or manslaughter.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 16th November, 2022

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Supporting bereaved children

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Children, Grief and Creativity (with Julia Samuel MBE)

A short, animated film Click here to watch on YouTube.

This film offers practical advice on ways to support bereaved children and suggests that creativity can help them process their loss. It is enriched by the wisdom and words of psychotherapist Julia Samuel MBE, Founder Patron of Child Bereavement UK and bestselling author, and the research of Lesel Dawson, an Associate Professor at the University of Bristol. It is animated by Gary Andrews (@GaryScribbler), creator of ‘Doodle-a-Day’ and Finding Joy, a collection of illustrations documenting his life with his two children after his wife, Joy, suddenly died from sepsis. Gary’s children, Lily and Ben, feature in the film. Rachel Hare was the Research Associate on this project and the film was funded by the Brigstow Institute, University of Bristol.

Grief in Children: A Handbook for Adults

Atle Dyregov

This fully updated second edition of “Grief in Children” explains children’s understanding of death at different ages and gives a detailed outline of exactly how the adults around them can best help them cope.

Buy from Amazon

Interventions with Bereaved Children

Smith and Pennells   

A resource with lots of practical ideas. Twenty contributors share effective ways of supporting and helping bereaved children. Chapter 13 is titled, “Helping Families and Professionals to Work with Children who have Learning Difficulties.”

Buy from Amazon

Someone Very Important Has Just Died: Immediate Help for People Caring for Children of All Ages at the Time of a Close Bereavement 

Mary Turner

This short book tackles the sensitive issues of what to tell children, how far to include them in the events immediately after the death, and how to tend to their physical and emotional needs. The material is suitable for anyone regardless of their background and beliefs, and is supplemented with information on where to go to obtain longer term bereavement support.

Buy from Amazon

Supporting Teenagers Through Grief And Loss: Practical Ideas & Creative Approaches

Anna Jacobs

A wealth of advice and helpful suggestions for those helping children through bereavement and loss. This book gives an overview of different behaviours you may encounter in school and how to respond, as well as discussing questions children may ask and how to answer them. Children's understanding of death varies according to stage of development and the author provides guidance on age-appropriate, honest responses along with a toolkit of creative and arts activities to help children examine and understand their emotions, physical feelings and memories.

Buy from Amazon

The Little Book of Bereavement for Schools

Ian Gilbert

A short, personal account of the way various schools tried to support the author’s three children after the death of their mother.  A book for a parent to take into any school which is seeking to support grieving pupils. It opens with a brief 15-point guide which would be a helpful starting point.

Buy from Amazon

Tough Stuff Journal - Someone has died

Pete English

Designed in free form for a bereaved young person to work through on their own or with a trusted adult, this journal asks questions and invites the young person to express feelings and emotions that are otherwise difficult to articulate. Useful for schools, youth leaders, parents or anyone working with a bereaved child or young person from 9 to 13 years old.

Available to buy from AtaLoss.org

You Just Don’t Understand: Supporting bereaved teenagers

Helen Mackinnon

The transition from childhood to adulthood can be a challenging process at the best of times. This booklet aims to help you understand what is normal adolescent development, and to recognise the additional problems teenagers may face if someone important dies during these years.

Buy from Amazon

Published: 8th November, 2022

Updated: 16th November, 2022

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Supporting bereaved children and young people with SEN

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A Special Kind of Grief

Sarah Helton

Children with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities), especially those in special schools, often experience grief at a much younger age than others, as some of their peers are more likely to have life-limiting medical conditions. This book provides all the resources that educational professionals need to ensure their community is fully prepared to acknowledge and support pupil bereavement and loss.

Buy from Amazon

Autism and Loss

R V Forrester-Jones

“Autism and Loss” is a complete resource that covers a variety of kinds of loss, including bereavement. It includes factsheets and practical ideas which families and professional carers may find useful.

Buy from Amazon

Children, Grief and Creativity (with Julia Samuel MBE)

A short, animated film Click here to watch on YouTube.

This film offers practical advice on ways to support bereaved children and suggests that creativity can help them process their loss. It is enriched by the wisdom and words of psychotherapist Julia Samuel MBE, Founder Patron of Child Bereavement UK and bestselling author, and the research of Lesel Dawson, an Associate Professor at the University of Bristol. It is animated by Gary Andrews (@GaryScribbler), creator of ‘Doodle-a-Day’ and Finding Joy, a collection of illustrations documenting his life with his two children after his wife, Joy, suddenly died from sepsis. Gary’s children, Lily and Ben, feature in the film. Rachel Hare was the Research Associate on this project and the film was funded by the Brigstow Institute, University of Bristol.

Finding Your Own Way to Grieve

Karla Helbert 

A creative activity workbook for grieving children and teens on the Autistic Spectrum. The clear concise language will help adults communicate with children around the abstract concepts of death and grief.

Buy from Amazon

Grief in Children: A Handbook for Adults

Atle Dyregov

This fully updated second edition of “Grief in Children” explains children’s understanding of death at different ages and gives a detailed outline of exactly how the adults around them can best help them cope.

Buy from Amazon

Let's Talk About Death

Down’s Syndrome Scotland

A booklet about death and funerals for young people and adults who have a learning disability. Includes some simple text on why people die, what happens at funerals and possible grief reactions. Photographs support the text.

Download from Down's Syndrome Scotland

Remembering Lucy: A Story about Loss and Grief in School

Sarah Helton

This touching short story will help children with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) aged 3+ understand feelings caused by death and loss, and the illustrations help convey the complex experience of bereavement in a simple and clear way. Included is a teacher’s guide to talking about bereavement, grief and loss, making this the ideal aid for teachers and support staff at SEND schools and colleges.

Buy from Amazon

Suzie Goes to a Funeral

Charlotte Olson

Join Suzie as she goes to Grandma’s funeral and says goodbye. Suzie can help explain to a child who may be anxious about going to a funeral for the first time. A simple story to help and show what they might experience on this day.

Buy from Suzie Books

When Dad Died

Hollins and Sireling

This book take an honest and straightforward approach to death and grief in the family. The pictures tell the death of a parent in a simple but moving way. The approach is non-denominational. Suitable for young people and adults with a learning disability.

Buy from Books Beyond Words

When Mum Died

Hollins and Sireling

This book takes an honest and straightforward approach to death and grief in the family. The pictures tell the death of a parent in a simple but moving way. “When Mum Died” shows a burial. The approach is non-denominational. Suitable for young people and adults with a learning disability.

Buy from Books Beyond Words

When Mum Died

Hollins and Sireling

This book takes an honest and straightforward approach to death and grief in the family. The pictures tell the death of a parent in a simple but moving way. “When Mum Died” shows a burial. The approach is non-denominational. Suitable for young people and adults with a learning disability.

Buy from Books Beyond Words

Published: 7th November, 2022

Updated: 10th November, 2022

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Supporting children bereaved by sudden death - including accidents, suicide and homicide

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A Grief Like No Other: Surviving the Violent Death of Someone you Love

Kathleen O’Hara 

Violent death brings to survivors a different kind of grief. From intense feelings of guilt, anger and post-traumatic stress, to years spent dealing with the legal ramifications, those left behind in the wake of violence have to contend with unique circumstances that are different from a “natural” death.

Buy from Amazon

A Special Scar: The experiences of people bereaved by suicide

Alison Wertheimer

Written and researched by a bereaved sibling, this book covers the losses of siblings, parents, children and friends.

Buy from Amazon

After a Murder: A Workbook for Grieving Kids

Dougy Centre

Through the stories, thoughts and feelings of other kids who have experienced a murder, this hands-on workbook allows children to see that they are not alone in their feelings and experiences. The workbook includes drawing activities, puzzles and word games to help explain confusing elements specific to a murder, such as the police, media and legal system.

Buy from Amazon

Beyond the Rough Rock: Supporting a Child Who Has Been Bereaved Through Suicide

Di Stubbs and Julie Stokes

This booklet offers practical advice for families in the immediate days and weeks when suicide has been the cause of death. It aims to give parents and professionals the confidence to involve children in discussions about the nature of a death by suicide.

Buy from Amazon