Mode for.

In a recent webinar, Linda Magistris OBE of thegoodgrieftrust reminded us of one of the most important things psychotherapist and paediatric counsellor Julia Samuel ever said about grief.

'It isn't the circumstances of the death that will predict a positive or negative outcome. It is the support they get at the time and after the death. This is the key component to anybody finding a way forward with their life.'

Read that again.

The support at the time and after. Not the type of loss. Not the age of the adult or child. Not the family circumstances. The support.

With forthcoming changes to curriculum, childhood grief education is getting its moment.

Which means schools (the places children spend most of their waking hours) are among the most powerful variables in a bereaved child's long-term outcomes.

Trained staff. A clear policy. A curriculum that normalises grief. These are not nice-to-haves. From 1 September, for the first time, they are statutory requirements.

I would also take this one step further… that to truly give a whole community approach to grief support for children we should also extend this grief support and awareness knowledge and training into our community groups, be that dance, theatre, sports, music and yes, brass bands.

What does grief support look like in your brass band right now — honestly? For children and adults?

I will be helping bands to get this in place and right. If you’re interested in what that looks like. Let me know 👇🏻

Tabby x