REsources: when Your Child Dies
When Your Child Dies is a booklet created by Redkite social workers in collaboration with bereaved parents, sharing real experiences of life after the death of a child.
This booklet is part of a series, adapted from CLIC Sargent by Redkite. This series includes:
Download this booklet or
order a physical copy below
Nothing can prepare you for the heartbreak of losing a child. The first moments and days can feel overwhelming and surreal. You may experience a wide range of emotions; numbness, tearfulness, anxiety, or even a sense of calm, all within a short space of time. Grief does not follow a pattern, and there is no “right” way to feel.
This is not a booklet anyone should ever have to read, and we know that no words can ease the pain of your loss. We understand that reading this might feel impossible right now, and if you choose to put it aside, that is completely okay. At the same time, many parents later tell us they wish they had known certain things in those early days; things that could have made the overwhelming decisions feel slightly easier. This booklet was created by social workers who have put together these practical suggestions to gently walk you through what to expect, in case knowing helps. The booklet also includes experiences of bereaved parents to support parents and carers when their child dies of cancer.
While it’s important not to rush decisions, some arrangements may need your attention sooner than others. In the midst of so much chaos, simply having an idea of what comes next may help you feel a bit more prepared. This booklet focuses on those practicalities, and we acknowledge at times, this might feel at odds with the depth of what you are going through emotionally. Please go at your own pace and take only what feels helpful right now.
We hope you can be gentle and kind to yourself. You are not alone. If and when it feels helpful, you can reach out to Redkite. We offer social work and emotional support in person, by phone, video chat, or email. These services are available to you and anyone close to your child, including extended family and friends. You can visit our website or call us for more information, whenever the time feels right for you.
It seems like a completely new world, obviously pretty lonely. You don’t know anyone who’s been through this experience. Friends are fantastic but, of course, they can’t imagine what it’s like.
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Although your experience is unique, many parents have been through similar experiences. It is important to be reassured that you are not alone and others may be able to offer you comfort and support as you come to terms with the death of your child.
There may be times when you feel that you need professional help, the support of someone who has specialist skills and experience. You can talk to anyone from the specialist team who cared for you and your child, Redkite, or a trusted professional such as your GP.
Redkite is here for you, whether your child has died recently or if you have been bereaved for a longer time
Request information And support
We’re ready to help. Please call us on 1800 REDKITE (Mon – Fri 9am – 7pm AEST), or fill out the form below.
Related resources
Coffee Groups for bereaved parents and carers
Regular virtual coffee groups for bereaved families
Coffee Groups for bereaved parents and carers
Regular virtual coffee groups for bereaved families
Living Without Your Child
Living without your child is a nine-page booklet written using the real experiences of bereaved parents about life after your child dies.
Living Without Your Child
Living without your child is a nine-page booklet written using the real experiences of bereaved parents about life after your child dies.
When Your Child Isn’t Going To Get Better
When your child isn’t going to get better is an eleven-page booklet written using the real experiences of bereaved parents.
When Your Child Isn’t Going To Get Better
When your child isn’t going to get better is an eleven-page booklet written using the real experiences of bereaved parents.
Counselling: when you’re ready, we are here
Redkite provides free counselling for adults. You can talk to us once or twice, or more often if you need. It’s up to you.
Counselling: when you’re ready, we are here
Redkite provides free counselling for adults. You can talk to us once or twice, or more often if you need. It’s up to you.
