Newark Children’s Bereavement Centre has launched specialist training for professionals to support children facing grief and trauma

A charity has launched specialist training to support children facing grief and trauma.

Newark’s Children’s Bereavement Centre provides free specialist support for children and their families affected by the death or terminal illness of a loved one.

Specialist training designed for professionals, led by the charity, will be taking place on February 11 with communication through play and on March 12 with understanding childhood bereavement and grief.

The charity’s mission is to share knowledge and practical skills with professionals to increase their understanding of the emotional impact bereavement and loss can have on children and young people.

Kate Baxter, ceo of the Children’s Bereavement Centre said: “ We understand how difficult it is to support a grieving child or young person.

“Many parents and professionals have said to us that they would like to increase their understanding so they can feel confident in knowing what to do and say, as well as learning how they can look after themselves to provide the support and guidance needed at home.

“As the local bereavement experts, we have therefore developed some training, to complement the other free services with offer to local families who have been bereaved.“

Schools and other professionals can play a crucial role in supporting children and young people during times of need.

The specialist training provides a better understanding of bereavement in childhood and offers practical ideas to support and complement a teacher’s or counsellor’s existing skills.

There are a variety of training dates throughout the year, especially for professionals, at venues in Newark.