Regardless of the location of death (hospital, hospice or at home), these people will have remained a constant (distance permitting) and, in most cases, will continue to see the family (or support them by telephone) if they wish, after the death of their child.
If the child or young person dies in the hospital, the entire care team will have remained the same. Whenever possible, pre-bereavement work will have been done by the care team to prepare the child or young person, their siblings and family for their death. This can include assisting them to arrange the funeral. After the funeral, the POONS or CSSW contact the family within a few days.
Similarly if the local Children’s Hospice has been involved, the family support team and all care staff will offer bereavement support to families.
Each individual team will have their own unique way of commemorating each child’s journey whether it be a memory box, candle lit service, tree planting or remembrance book.
Further resources and reading
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
Facing the death of your child A comprehensive guide for families covering all aspects of bereavement, before and afterwards.
Bereavement: Sources of help and support This booklet contains suggestions of sources of support for families who have lost a child from cancer. It may be helpful to bereaved parents, grandparents and other family members, as well as to those such as teachers, health professionals and friends who are offering support to the family.
Children’s Hospice Association Scotland
Leaflets for bereaved siblings
CLIC Sargent
One day at a time DVD showing the experiences of parents, carers and siblings following the death of a child or young person from cancer.
One day at a time: when your child dies Sensitive information booklet to help support parents and carers when their child dies of cancer.
One day at a time: living without your child Sensitive information booklet to help support parents and carers after the death of their child from cancer.
In our own words Parents share their experiences and talk about life after their child has died of cancer.