Loss and bereavement

Amidst the Covid 19 crisis, it is likely that some EIS members will experience associated bereavement themselves, as will many of the colleagues, children and families that we work with.

Current social distancing measures have meant that there are significant restrictions around end of life care and arrangements of funerals for all deaths.

Individuals and families are restricted in the ways that they might usually express and cope with grief and loss, and are prevented from taking part in some of the rituals which normally provide comfort when we experience the loss of loved ones. The emotional impact of social distancing and lockdown at a time when families and friends naturally come together to mourn and mark the passing of loved ones is likely to be an added challenge for many in coping with grief at this time.

The NHS Education for Scotland website Support Around Death (SAD) is for healthcare staff on the clinical, legislative, and practical issues involved.  The advice provided is practical and useful for all professionals.

The Childhood Bereavement Network offers advice for those experiencing loss and supporting people through bereavement.  They offer information specific to teachers, as well as information specifically for COVID-19.

Child Bereavement UK supports families when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, or when a child is facing bereavement.

Cruse (Scotland) offers bereavement support.

Grief Encounter offers advice and activities to support children and young people facing and experiencing bereavement.

Crocus Child Bereavement Support Service offers bereavement support across the Highlands.

Young Scot has produced information using plain language to describe grief and bereavement.

Winston's Wish is a charity offering support and guidance for teachers supporting young people through bereavement.