Product reviews for The Little Book of Bereavement for Schools

I am a Parent Support Adviser at a school in North Somerset. I work alongside four Heads of House (similar to Year leaders) and teachers, looking after the Pastoral care of students and parents in our school.

I have been in this role for 18 months and have become very aware of how many students come to talk about bereavement of a loved one. I felt that for a large secondary school, enough was not being done to support our students.

One of my colleagues introduced me to `The Little book of Bereavement For Schools`. I was stunned that such a small, simple book could have such a big impact on me! This book summed up the reasons why I felt school was not providing full attention to bereaved children. I love the fact that Ian Gilbert and his family have come up with some direct but enormously valid guidelines in a straightforward, writing style. Points that need to be said and made clear for all staff members who work in schools.

The points that I particularly remember:

- You don`t have to say a lot but say something!
- Encourage students, staff to send cards, emails, talk about the bereavement
- A teacher can make a big difference in a Young persons life, it`s important to take time to acknowledge how a young persons life will be affected by death

In my work in school, I will be listening to bereaved children on a regular basis and always keep in mind, the points that this little book raises.
I will be encouraging as many staff in our school to read this little book and keep it close at hand to refer to. Excellent value and I will continue to try and raise its profile.