Bereavement support - Very Special Kids

Grieving can be one of life’s most difficult and overwhelming challenges, often bringing inner conflicts and family disharmony. Contradicting the natural cycle of life, the death of a child is very often the most profound loss a family can experience. Grief affects individuals differently and may impact on emotional, social, physical and spiritual wellbeing. At Very Special Kids, the Bereavement Support Program has been developed in consultation with our bereaved families. Through a range of activities designed to meet individual needs, we aim to create a safe and affirming space for families to explore the impact of a child’s death on their lives. Recognising the individual nature of grief, our flexible program encompasses needs of family members whilst honouring a diversity of grieving styles. The program includes the following: Click here to download the Bereavement Support Program brochure Individual and family counselling Talking to someone other than family and friends can be helpful. Confidential sessions are offered to all family members. Networking / peer support Bereaved families can choose to be in contact with each other informally by joining our networking list. We also have a peer support program where a team of trained bereaved parents provide support to other bereaved families. Parent workshops, meetings and an annual retreat A range of activities such as creative workshops and discussion groups are offered. The annual retreat is a unique weekend for bereaved parents, providing a safe, nurturing environment where parents can share and celebrate their children's lives, once more being their child's parent. The retreat also aims to provide opportunities for reflection on self, identity and future life direction. Sibling activities Our sibling program caters for the needs of those siblings whose brother or sister has died. The program includes counselling, activity days, evenings and weekends for bereaved siblings aged between 5 and 18 years. These activities provide an opportunity for the children and adolescents to get to know each other, express their feelings in a safe environment and develop communication skills and strategies for healthy grieving. Remembrance Day A special day is set aside each year for families, friends, volunteers, staff and all those connected to Very Special Kids to honour, celebrate and commemorate the children who have died. This day is usually held on a Sunday in October with a ceremony at the Malvern Town Hall across the road from Very Special Kids, followed by the releasing of balloons and an afternoon tea providing families with the opportunity to meet with staff and each other. Continuing Links Continuing Links is our newsletter that is distributed to families to provide a way for those who cannot attend activities to be kept informed and maintain a connection with Very Special Kids. The Quiet Room This room at Very Special Kids offers a space for meditation, prayer and reflection. In the room, a memorial book and photo albums contain the names and photos of the children who have died.