"It is really hard to be bereaved when you are a youngster because you are in the middle of becoming who you want to be and suddenly the world looks different."

- Rosylee, on the www.thebighug.org.uk messageboard

Bereavement is always devastating, but for young children it can be particularly severe. The loss of a loved one at a time when they are still finding their way in the world can cause serious mental and physical consequences that affect the rest of their lives.

With expert support, however, children can explore their feelings in a secure setting and gain the knowledge and confidence necessary to cope with their loss. Cruse exists to provide this care and offers one-to-one support as well as specialist groups and telephone services. It also runs a dedicated website, www.rd4u.org.uk, and provides specialist information services for children, families and schools. 

Please help us support these children in their time of need. By participating in our Big Hug Winter Challenge or making a donation you will allow us to care for more people like Danielle:

"My mum died when I was 11. I am now 15. I miss her so much.We were so close.My dad died 2 weeks befor my first birthday so I did not know him.My mum suffered with kidney failure for many many years.As a young child I would help mum with her machine because it would break my heart when i saw my mum cry.At the age of 9 I was taken into care.My mum was always a fighter she always stayed strong for me even when things were real bad mum put a smile on and carried on fighting.I miss my mum so much.I know live in a foster family.When I use to live in the care home and my mum use to come and visit me I would think I am so lucky to still see my mum because the other kids did not see their relatives and I use to think If I did not see my mum I would have to die because I could not survive without my mum .I surprice myself and ask myself How have I coped still being alive after nearly four years of my mums death.I am so grateful for RD4U because it helps to see you are not alone."