Bereavement charity’s BBC radio air time
AMOTHER who was supported by a bereavement charity based in Runcorn during an agonising time is speaking on national radio about the help she received.
Katherine Woods used Child Bereavement UK’s national helpline and was helped, along with her two young children after their father took his life.
As well as its over-thephone service the charity also provides face-to-face support to families from its centre on High Street in Runcorn.
Every week, BBC Radio 4 runs a programme highlighting the work of a different charity and appealing for donations.
This week the pro- gramme is focusing on Child Bereavement UK and Katherine’s story.
Katherine said: “When the police had left my home, I Googled ‘how do you tell a child their dad has killed himself?’
“I didn’t know where to turn, and Child Bereavement UK was top of the search rankings.
“The charity’s bereavement support staff guided me into one of the most difficult conversations I’ve ever had, and they have been there ever since, by my side supporting me, supporting my children.”
Child Bereavement UK supports families when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, or when a child is facing bereavement.
The charity also trains professionals such as teachers and nurses to help them better under- stand the needs of grieving families in their work.
The helpline operates 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, providing confidential support, information and guidance.
Last year the charity received around 3,000 enquiries from bereaved families seeking support and information, and from professionals seeking advice about the bereaved children and families with whom they work.
This service is provided free of charge but it costs the charity approximately £25 to respond to a call.
Anyone in need of support can call the helpline free of charge on 0800 028 8840.
Tune in to BBC Radio 4 to hear Child Bereavement UK’s appeal at 3.27pm on Thursday, September 15.