Frightening and distressing events in the news can have a huge impact on children and young people, particularly those who may have been directly involved in an incident, who are grieving, upset, or understandably anxious about themselves and others.
In light of the recent events in Manchester and London, Child Bereavement UK have highlighted a really helpful and straightforward information sheet:
Supporting Children after a Frightening Event
“You can help children and young people feel safer sooner, by sticking to their normal routines as much as possible, and continuing with their normal activities when possible.”
“Children and young people need a truthful explanation that makes sense of the main facts, which is appropriate for their age. Even younger children can really benefit from being given a description and explanation of what happened.”
They are also offering a series of free seminars and consultation sessions for school staff to aid them in supporting pupils following sudden and traumatic death.
Child Bereavement UK
Child Bereavement UK is a great charity that supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, or when a child is facing bereavement. Do take a look at their website, and if you are a professional working with children or young people in the UK, you can sign up for more information here.
