Families can request charity’s help with free child bereavement support

Rochester-based charity Holding On Letting Go, which supports bereaved children across the county, is sending out a reminder that anyone can refer a family to their services.

It is commonly thought that a referral can only come through healthcare professionals, teachers or someone else supporting them in a professional capacity. But families can refer themselves, or close friends or family can too – with permission from the bereaved child’s parent or guardian.

Another misconception is about cost – but all services are free, thanks to fundraisers, donations, grants and funding.

CEO Jules Tobin said: “It’s important that parents, guardians, and even young people themselves, know they can come to us for support, should they need it –when a death is expected, recent or was some time ago. If a child is experiencing bereavement, we are here to support them and their family, at no cost to them and they can make the referral themselves.

“We’re lucky to be supported by individual fundraisers and businesses who ensure we can fund the bereavement services we provide.”

The charity was established in 1998, to offer vital but missing bereavement services for children in Kent.

Jules added: “If someone you know is bereaved and there’s a child in the family, please let them know about us. The more people know about us, the more people we can reach who need us.”

For more information visit www.holg.org.uk