Stars
Pre-bereavement and Post-bereavement support service
For children and young people age 4-19, who live or attend school in Cambridgeshire.
Our service
We know how difficult it can be when a child experiences the death of someone close to them – or when a family is preparing for a loss. The Stars Bereavement Service is here to provide compassionate, specialist support to help children and young people make sense of their feelings and find a way forward.
Our expert counsellors support young people aged 4-19 in Cambridgeshire who may be experiencing difficulties following, or in anticipation of, the loss of a close family member.
We offer:
- Free pre-bereavement support for children and families who are anticipating the loss of someone close.
- Access to specialist counsellors who understand the unique impact of grief on children and young people.
How we support bereaved children
Counsellors listen to the emotional needs of children and support them to express painful feelings through creative activities, talking, and play.
These one-to-one sessions offer children a confidential space to help them to manage their difficult feelings and make sense of what has happened.
We also provide telephone advice to families and schools supporting children and young people experiencing or facing close bereavement.
Referring to Stars
The Stars Bereavement Service has a proven impact, helping children and young people to understand their grief, build resilience and find ways to cope after bereavement.
To refer a child to work with us, please use the appropriate form:
DOWNLOAD: Ormiston Families Stars Bereavement Referral Form
DOWNLOAD: Ormiston Families Stars Pre-Bereavement Referral Form
We also recommend the resources available at winstonswish.org and childbereavementuk.org
Hear Sadie’s story
Sadie Northfield lost her husband Matt in late 2024. Her son Gilby worked with Stars to overcome his grief.
Watch the video to learn more about Sadie and Gilbys’ journey with Stars.
Watch the video
Become a supporter
Our supporters’ generous donations allow Stars’ work to continue.
If you would like to ensure more children affected by bereavement have brighter futures, click the link below.
Make a dedication
Show your appreciation for the fantastic work of the Stars Bereavement service by sharing a message on our special dedication page.
Poppy’s Story
“After the passing of her Nanny and Grandad, Poppy dropped out of college and struggled with depression and anxiety. With her unexpressed grief and emotions making her fear she’d get ‘lost in depression’, Poppy needed someone to turn to. Our Stars children’s bereavement support service stepped in to help her build a brighter future.”
Find out more
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