A timely £40,000 grant will enable a bereavement charity to cope with the anticipated increase in youngsters dealing with the loss of a loved one.
Havering and Brentwood Bereavement Service (HBBS), based in Hornchurch, will be able to provide counselling to 30 extra children a year thanks to the money from the City of London Corporation’s charity, City Bridge Trust.
The support is aimed at improving self-esteem and mental well-being, helping bereaved youngsters to understand their emotions and prevent long-term psychological damage.
An HBBS spokesman said: “We are very grateful. HBBS receives no statutory funding, so is totally reliant on fundraising and grant providers such as City Bridge Trust.
“The grant has covered the anticipated increase in children’s referrals we will see in 2015/16 and 2016/17, but we still need the support from the community to continue this vital service.”
HBBS launched its Children’s Service five years ago and many young clients have lost parents in tragic circumstances such as suicide or road traffic accidents.
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