Bereavement and Loss
Many children and young people
experience bereavement and loss when someone close to them
dies. Other losses might include family change due to parental
separation, other family circumstances, personal illness,
change of school and friends.
It is recognised that bereavement and loss may impact on a
pupil's ability to achieve in school. While most children and
young people are resilient and with support learn to cope with
significant change and loss, some may require more specialised
help.
The Pupil Personal Development Services Team can offer a range
of support:
Schools
Support with policy development and training of staff in
strategies and practical approaches which can be used in
helping these pupils.
Group support: With the consent of pupils and
parents/carers schools may refer pupils where significant
concerns remain following usual pastoral support.
Some indicators which might mean that pupils might need
additional help include:
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If they are unable to handle the intensity of their feelings and reactions
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If their normal ways of coping are not working
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If they do not seem able to move on with their life following a reasonable period
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If they believe there is no one they can talk to about how they are feeling