The death of a close family member can be an overwhelming, painful and lonely experience for a child or young person. It may be hard to talk with a parent who is already upset. Friends may shy away because they do not know what to say.
At Nicky's Way we believe children have a great capacity to survive the death of a close family member, but this journey is made easier for them by being alongside others who care.
What Nicky's Way offers
After careful assessment of the needs of individual family members, Nicky's Way runs an age-related group-work programme offering a range of activities, together with a support group for adults that runs alongside the children's programme.
The six week programme gives the child
- information that helps to make sense of the questions in their heads
- companionship: the chance to be with other children who have had similar experiences
- a safe place to express varied and conflicting emotions
- opportunities to remember the person who has died
Who runs the groups?
Professionals from our Family Support Team run the groups with volunteers who have been carefully selected and trained by the Team.
How can someone join?
Referrals for any bereaved child or young person, living in the West Suffolk or Thetford area, can be made through a GP, Health Visitor, CRUSE or any other professional. Families can refer themselves, provided we have the consent of the main carer and the child or young person.
You can make a referral by calling 01284 766133 or email your details and one of the team will contact you.
