International Children’s Book Day with Sunbeams

International Children's Book Day with Sunbeams Bereavement Support Group

International Children's Book Day with Sunbeams

At Rotherham Hospice, our Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement support group understands the importance of gentle, empathetic storytelling in helping children navigate the complex emotions surrounding grief. On International Children’s Book Day, we wanted to share how through carefully selected books, we aim to provide solace, understanding, and a safe space for children to explore their feelings.

One such book that holds a special place in our Sunbeams group is The Huge Bag of Worries by Virginia Ironside. This beautifully illustrated story serves as a poignant metaphor for the burdensome weight of worries that children often carry, particularly in the face of bereavement. Just like the protagonist in the story, children in our group may find themselves hesitant to share their worries with their families, fearing that they may cause further distress. However, through the gentle guidance of our support group sessions, we emphasise that sharing a worry helps to make it get smaller and eventually go away; no-one should carry a bag if worries around with them.

Another recommendation from our Sunbeams group is The Invisible String by Patrice Karst. This heart-warming tale illustrates the enduring connections we share with loved ones, even beyond the boundaries of life and death. Through the metaphor of an invisible string that binds us to those we cherish, the book offers reassurance to children that they are never truly alone, even when separated from loved ones by death. In our support group sessions, we use this book to help children understand that their relationship with their loved ones endure, providing comfort and companionship during times of grief.

These carefully chosen books serve as powerful tools in our efforts to support children through the grieving process. By fostering empathy, understanding, and resilience, they provide a source of comfort and guidance for young minds grappling with loss. As we mark International Children’s Book Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to nurturing the hearts and minds of children through the transformative power of literature.

If you’re interested in exploring these books further or learning more about our Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement support group, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. 

Happy International Children’s Book Day!

Find out more about our Sunbeams Children's Bereavement Support Group here.

Navigating Grief on Valentine’s Day

navigating grief on valentine's day with rotherham hospice

Navigating Grief on Valentine's Day

As Valentine’s Day approaches, we understand that it can be a challenging time for those who have lost a loved one under our care. Grief doesn’t take a holiday, and special occasions can often amplify the sense of loss. In this blog post, we want to acknowledge the pain that some may be feeling and offer support for navigating the complexities of grief during this season of love.

Understanding Grief on Valentine’s Day

Grief is a unique journey for each individual, and there is no set timeline for healing. Valentine’s Day, a day traditionally associated with love and celebration, can evoke a range of emotions for those who have recently experienced loss. It is essential to recognise and honour these feelings, allowing yourself the time and space to grieve.

Connecting with Your Hospice Family

At Rotherham Hospice, we consider everyone who has been touched by our care to be part of our extended family. Your Hospice family is here to support you not only during the difficult times but also during moments of celebration and remembrance. Remember that you are not alone, and your grief is valid.

Coping Strategies

  1. Celebrate the Memories: Take the time to reflect on the beautiful memories you shared with your loved one. Consider creating a memory box or journal to honour their legacy.

  2. Create New Traditions: Establishing new traditions can help shift the focus from the pain of loss to the celebration of your loved one’s life. This could include lighting a candle, visiting a special place, or sharing stories with family and friends.

  3. Seek Support: Reach out to your Hospice family, friends, or support groups to share your feelings. Talking about your grief can be a comforting and healing experience.

Resources for Support

Rotherham Hospice provides dedicated bereavement support to help you navigate the grieving process. Visit our Bereavement Support page at rotherhamhospice.org.uk/bereavement-support for a wealth of resources, including articles, counselling information, and signposting to local and national support organisations.

Don’t Hesitate to Reach Out

If you find yourself in need of additional support, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our compassionate team is here for you, ready to provide the assistance and guidance you require during this difficult time.

Navigating Grief During the Festive Season

Navigating Grief During the Festive Season

Navigating Grief During the Festive Season: A message from Rotherham Hospice

At Rotherham Hospice, we understand that this time of year can be particularly difficult for individuals and families who are navigating the complex emotions that accompany loss. Grief doesn’t take a holiday, and it’s okay to acknowledge and embrace the sad feelings that may arise during this season.

Embracing the Complexity of Emotions

Grief is a personal journey, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. During the holidays, emotions can be especially intense as we reminisce about past celebrations and traditions shared with those who have died.  It’s essential to recognise that feeling a mix of sadness, nostalgia, and even moments of joy is a normal part of the grieving process.

Honouring Memories

This Christmas, consider finding meaningful ways to honour and celebrate the memories of your loved one. Lighting a candle, creating a special ornament, or sharing stories with family and friends can be powerful ways to keep their spirit alive during the holiday season. These rituals can serve as a comforting bridge between the past and the present.

Seeking Support

Navigating grief can be a challenging journey, and it’s crucial to remember that you don’t have to face it alone. Whether through counselling, support groups, or reaching out to friends and family, connecting with others who understand your experience can provide comfort and a sense of shared understanding. Remember that crying is a natural response to extreme sadness, not something to be avoided.  Those who are strong and sensible, seek out appropriate support when they are feeling low.

Adjusting Traditions

It’s okay to reassess and adjust holiday traditions to accommodate the changes brought about by loss. Whether it’s starting new traditions or modifying existing ones, finding ways to honour your loved one while allowing space for your own healing is an important aspect of the grieving process. You may want to visit a cemetery or a favourite place of your loved one. Some people have a tradition of walking in the countryside or even sharing time doing an activity or hobby the loved one used to do.

Self-Compassion

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, remember to be kind to yourself. Grieving takes time, and it’s valuable to prioritise self-care. Whether it’s taking a quiet moment alone, indulging in a favourite activity, or seeking professional support, giving yourself the space to feel and heal is a crucial part of the journey.

Christmas candles against a backdrop of snow

As we navigate the complexities of grief during the holiday season, let us be gentle with ourselves and with others. At Rotherham Hospice, we extend our support to those who may be finding this time of year particularly challenging. Remember, your feelings are valid, and there is a community ready to offer understanding and compassion.

May this holiday season be a time of reflection, connection, and healing for all those who carry the weight of grief in their hearts. From our Hospice family to yours, we wish you moments of peace, comfort, and the strength to embrace the love that endures beyond the physical presence of those we hold dear.

Children’s Grief Awareness Week 2023

Children's Grief Awareness week

Children's Grief Awareness Week

When a loved one dies it can be confusing or scary time, especially for children and teenagers. That’s why Sunbeams exists –  Rotherham’s only bereavement support group specifically for young people.

Sunbeams helps children and teenagers to process their grief and express and understand their emotions.

As part of Children’s Grief Awareness Week 2022, our Sunbeams children decorated shapes showing what helps them cope with the loss of a loved one. This was made into the beautiful Sharing Shapes Mural.

Find out about participating in the Sharing Shapes Mural for Children’s Grief Awareness Week 2023 HERE.

Sharing Shapes Mural for Children's Grief Awareness Week
The Sharing Shapes mural 2022 was made by over 80 groups, including Sunbeams, to show how we cope with grief and remember our loved ones.

Sunbeams at Rotherham Hospice​

Sunbeams offers bereavement support to children and teens who are experiencing the serious illness or death of a loved one cared for by Rotherham Hospice.

Our specially trained counsellors provide support through creative activities in after-school groups, as well as family sessions and sessions for parents and carers of children affected by bereavement. 

Over the years, Sunbeams has supported hundreds of Rotherham families during difficult times. You can find out more about Sunbeams and how to get a referral here.

Free resources for carers, parents and teachers

Here are some booklets you may find helpful, click to download:

How you can help

As a charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on the generosity of our amazing community for services like Sunbeams to keep going. 

The quickest & easiest way to support Rotherham Hospice is to become a regular giver. Anything you can give will make a difference to a Rotherham family experiencing end-of-life illness. Thank you.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

Family Drop-In Support Sessions at Rotherham Hospice

family drop in support session

Drop-In Family Support Sessions at Rotherham Hospice

Carers (family and friends) don’t choose to become carers – it just happens and you get on with it. To continue to care safely and maintain your own physical and mental wellbeing you may need support. 

Rotherham Hospice offers carers support services to support carers who are looking after someone with a long-term health condition in the palliative stage of their illness, including our monthly Drop-In Family Support sessions.

Drop-in Family Support sessions are a chance to talk to others in a similar situation, share any concerns and get hints and tips about how to cope with the day-to-day challenges of being a Carer. 

Who

Drop-in Family Support sessions are for the family and carers of Rotherham Hospice patients. 

Where

Rotherham Hospice, Broom Road, S20 2SW
 

When

2pm – 4pm on the following dates:
 
  • Friday 16th June 2023
  • Friday 14th July 2023
  • Friday 25th August 2023
  • Friday 22nd September 2023
  • Friday 20th October 2023
  • Friday 24th November 2023
 
 

 We look forward to welcoming you. Refreshments will be available. 

If you wish to join us, please come into the Hospice reception where you will be met by a member of staff.

If you have any questions, please call the Hospice Reception 01709 308900, and ask for the Patient and Family Support team, 

Children’s Grief Awareness Week 2022

Sunbeams meet the team

Children's Grief Awareness Week

It’s #ChildrensGriefAwarenessWeek so we’d like to talk about Sunbeams – Rotherham Hospice’s children’s bereavement support group.

Sunbeams offers bereavement support to children and teens who are experiencing the serious illness or death of a loved one involved with Rotherham Hospice care.

We provide support through creative activities in an after-school group on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The activities are designed to promote positive memories of their loved ones, help them to process and understand their grief and how to express and understand their emotions.

Meet the Sunbeams Team

Cath is from a nursing background, and set up Sunbeams more than 11 years ago. Cath realised the young people of Rotherham need specialist support when somebody they love requires care from Rotherham Hospice, and Sunbeams was born.

Lisa comes from an education background, and joined the Sunbeams team in this year. Together with the amazing Sunbeams volunteers, Lisa and Cath help children and teenagers work through their thoughts & feelings through activities and crafts.

Over the years, Sunbeams has supported hundreds of Rotherham families during difficult times.

You can find out more about Sunbeams and how to get a referral here.

How you can help

As a charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on the generosity of our amazing community for services like Sunbeams to keep going. 

The quickest & easiest way to support Rotherham Hospice is to become a regular giver. Anything you can give will make a difference to a Rotherham family experiencing end-of-life illness. Thank you.