A CHARITY is raising awareness of the impact lockdown is having on children and young people going through a bereavement.
During Mental Health Awareness Week, Barnardo’s NI is highlighting the difficulties children face in dealing with the death of a loved one during the pandemic.
The charity said the Covid-19 crisis has changed the traditional ways of marking grief with the rituals that often provide comfort and opportunities to share stories and memories not always possible.
Children and families can no longer access their usual support networks, which can make going through a bereavement a very lonely and isolating time.
Barnardo’s has shared a video of a thought-provoking story for children and young people, to help them explore language about their feelings and process their grief.
It is hoped the video will create opportunities for children to ask questions and lead to discussions around creative ways to support one another when feeling sad, mad, confused, upset, scared or anxious.
The charity is also encouraging young people who have been bereaved to create stars and decorate them with images reminding them of the person.
Michelle Scullion from Barnardo’s Child Bereavement Service said: "During these unusual times it’s natural to want to shield children when someone dies.
"Although they will be upset which may be difficult for you to watch, it is important they are told the truth, as this will help them cope.
"Talking with children and young people and being as honest as we can, allows them to feel involved and to feel safe.
"Families who have had a loved one die can continue to remember that person at home by cooking their favourite meal or listening to their favourite music together.
"The children and families we are currently supporting have come up with a lovely way of remembering their loved ones during lockdown, by making a star and decorating it with images that remind them of the person or writing a short note to that person on the back.
"These stars are being displaying around the house or in windows as a reminder of that person."
Barnardo’s NI haa an advice line for adults concerned about children (4-18 years) who have been bereaved, to discuss ways of supporting them during their grieving.
The advice line number is 07867372711 and is open Monday, Tuesday and Friday from10am to 1pm.
