Ryders’ Bereavement Support Station

The Ryders' Bereavement Support Station is for any primary aged child (4-11) along with older siblings, who have been touched by grief, past or present, directly or indirectly.

Whilst talking openly about death and dying in a safe and supportive environment at home is key to normalising the feelings of grief, sometimes a child may find it beneficial to talk to a peer instead or to someone who isn’t involved. Grief can feel very isolating, so meeting others experiencing grief in a group setting such as this, using fun activities and space to talk, can reduce isolation and encourage peer support,
through what can be a very confusing or difficult time. *Source: Child Bereavement UK: Office for National Statistics; National Records of Scotland; Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency.

Children and young people are likely to experience or be affected by the death of a loved one or friend during their time in education, with ‘1 in 29 of 5-16 year olds being bereaved of a parent or sibling*’.

There will be chance for a chat over a drink and a biscuit, as well as opportunities to engage in a series of activities to support your resilience, coping strategies, positive mental health and well-being.
Parents and carers are encouraged to stay and enjoy a chat together over a cup of coffee too.

They remain responsible for the wellbeing and behaviour of their children.

Ryders’ Bereavement Support Station, founded with the support of St Giles Hospice and the Bereavement Help Point Model, is a Bereavement Help Point with children at the centre, for children and their families.

It is open on the first Wednesday of each month in the Training School, from 3:45-4:45pm, where you will find:
- A group of Ryders Hayes pupils, trained as peer mentors (look out for their Here to Help badge).
- Supported by trained staff from Ryders Hayes along with support volunteers from St Giles Hospice.
- Children from neighbouring schools across Walsall Wood; Shelfield; Aldridge; Clayhanger and Brownhills drawn together to support one another through an experience of loss or bereavement, past or present.…all waiting to meet you.

As space is limited, and to safeguard your child, please let us know if you are planning to attend by calling or emailing Mr Rylance at Ryders Hayes on 01922 683008 or m.rylance@ryders-hayes.co.uk.

You will be asked to share your school; year group; home address; emergency contact details and any medical conditions/allergies. This data will only be used within the Bereavement Support Station.
Activities may include: Peer facilitation and group activities; crafts, stories, music, speakers, memory work, art, seasonal/occasion-themed crafts.

Why not join us?
at Ryders Hayes Training School (rear of school building – follow the signs)
Gilpin Crescent, Pelsall, Walsall, WS3 4HX

*Source: Child Bereavement UK: Office for National Statistics; National Records of Scotland; Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency