When a child is grieving, parents often look for trustworthy, professional help – and in the UK, the NHS provides access to a range of bereavement and mental health services that support families through loss. Understanding what’s available and how to approach grief at home makes a big difference in a child’s emotional recovery.

1. Start with open communication

Before seeking formal support, the most important thing you can do is talk openly and honestly with your child. Use simple, direct language – “They died because their body stopped working” – and allow every question, even if it repeats.

Children process grief gradually, so honesty and routine help them feel safe. The NHS recommends keeping communication consistent and avoiding vague phrases like “passed away” that can cause confusion.

2. Seek guidance from your GP

Your GP is the first place to turn if your child’s grief feels overwhelming or long-lasting. They can assess your child’s wellbeing and refer you to appropriate services such as:

NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) for children showing persistent anxiety, sadness, or behavioural changes.
School counsellors or local mental health teams who specialise in child bereavement support.

It’s perfectly okay to ask for a referral even if you’re unsure. Early intervention helps prevent long-term emotional difficulties.

3. Explore NHS-approved bereavement resources

The NHS website offers free, reliable information on child grief and links to national charities that provide specialist support, such as:

Child Bereavement UK – counselling, helplines, and parent guidance
Winston’s Wish – therapeutic services and free online support for children
Grief Encounter – creative therapy and school-based bereavement programmes

These services complement NHS care, offering families both emotional and practical support.

4. Support grief at home through structure and expression

While professional help is valuable, everyday care at home remains the foundation of healing. The NHS advises parents to:

Keep routines stable to provide predictability and comfort
Encourage emotional expression through talking, art, or play
Acknowledge all emotions – sadness, anger, confusion, even moments of joy
Reassure children that they are safe and loved

Structure and understanding help children rebuild emotional security, even after a major loss.

5. Know when to seek extra help

Children grieve in waves, but some signs may indicate they need additional support. Speak to your GP or CAMHS if your child:

Withdraws for long periods
Has frequent nightmares or fears about death
Shows sudden aggression, regression, or loss of concentration
Complains of frequent physical symptoms like stomach aches or headaches

Early professional help can ease distress and strengthen emotional resilience.

6. Involve the child’s school or nursery

Schools often work closely with NHS-linked mental health teams. Let teachers or pastoral staff know what’s happened so they can offer extra care and understanding. A supportive school environment can help children process grief more safely and openly.

7. Use community and charity support alongside NHS care

You don’t have to choose between professional help and community support – they work best together. Many families combine NHS counselling with group sessions, local bereavement charities, or creative workshops for children.

Community connection reminds children that they’re not alone – others understand and care.

Closing note: help that heals, together

Grief doesn’t have to be faced alone. The NHS, alongside trusted charities, offers vital emotional and mental health support for children and families. When combined with love, structure, and honesty at home, these services create a strong network of care – helping children feel safe, understood, and hopeful again.
For creative tools and printable exercises that complement professional support, visit our Child Grief Worksheets – psychologist-designed resources to help children express feelings and find comfort in connection.