Jeremiah’s Journey

One child in 29 will experience the death of a parent or sibling, a shocking statistic that equates to one child in every classroom in every school at any given time. Bereavement in childhood is recognised as an Adverse Childhood Experience with a potential lifelong impact. Thankfully, there is help available. 

Jeremiah’s Journey is a bereavement charity providing age-appropriate therapeutic interventions for children and young people in Plymouth and surrounding areas in East Cornwall and Devon. It provides emotional and practical support for children, young people and their families who are pre-bereavement (expecting a death) and those who have been bereaved. They are currently supporting over 700 children and young people each year, with the wider family benefit extending to 2,000 people annually. 

It is important for young people to understand that they aren’t alone and that their feelings are normal.

James Walbank, Bereavement Services Manager, said: “When a child or young person loses somebody close to them, it is often the first significant loss they have experienced. They need help to develop a new relationship with the person they have lost. We help them to carry on and give them ways to smile, and feel sad, with memories; we provide the tools to pave the way forward.” 

Jeremiah’s Journey’s services include a Grief Journey group, an extended group in the community, memory days, family days, individual support, training to professionals and community groups, advice and support. The team also works with parents and carers and facilitates peer-to-peer support groups for the wider family. 

Since the charity started in 1996, its work has been proven to improve health and well-being, school attendance, sleep and social connection to over 6,000 children.

Staff members also respond to critical incidents, including sudden deaths. Their combined experience and expertise means that they can support children, young people and their families when there has been an unexpected or traumatic death, sometimes witnessed by children. This can include death caused by the actions of another person, an accident, suicide or overdose. 

One of the charity’s key support groups is its Grief Journey Group. James explained: “Experienced volunteers are trained and work alongside children, young people and parents/carers, giving a high level of attention as they respond to activities and stories. Because we plan carefully, according to age, different age groups respond well to the content of the sessions. We find that families are dedicated to the group, committing to regular attendance. As they attend successive sessions, their confidence and abilities grow. By the end of group, they are often at a stage where they have skills and language that can be used in the future.” 

It costs around £250,000 each year to keep Jeremiah’s Journey running, providing such essential local support. However, the charity doesn’t have a sustainable income stream and relies on donations to continue its work. If you are able to give £2-£3 per month to this worthy cause, please visit www.jeremiahsjourney.org.uk.