Bereavement support for siblings of children who have died

The advice on bereavement support for children applies to siblings, see Bereavement support for children. Additional considerations for children whose sibling has died are discussed below.

The parents and extended family are best placed to answer the sibling’s questions about the child’s death and provide support, comfort and reassurance. Siblings are likely to cope better if the family is able to include the siblings in their own experience of loss (eg keeping them involved and informed), and maintain a sense of safety and security in the family.

Children may benefit from meeting with other bereaved siblings. Sibling support groups and activities (eg sibling days, sibling camps) can be helpful. If necessary, healthcare professionals can refer siblings for age-appropriate counselling and support. Some community organisations specialise in supporting children who have experienced particular forms of grief and loss.

For information about the experience of siblings and how to support them while their sibling is alive, see Support for siblings of children with a life-limiting illness.