This time of year can be quite difficult for a grieving family. 

Easter is traditionally a time for families to get together and celebrate, even if you are not religious. 
It is normally one of the occassions during the year when the family all gets together, but it is also the time that you look around and realise the people who are not with you anymore. 
Family gatherings can either be very difficult for a grieving family or be a chance to all have the chance to talk and grieve together.

Nowadays Easter has taken on a more commercialised meaning and revolves around the giving and receiving of Easter eggs. The shops are full of chocolate and activities to do with your little ones and all around you there seems to be events all geared for families with their children. Everywhere you turn and every TV channel you turn to is all about families and their children.

For families that have lost a baby or child it can feel overwhelming.

If they have other children they want to make it a fun time for them but they will always have their missing child in their thoughts. Walking round the shops seeing all the families and parents buying all the eggs can bring emotions to a head. 

This is where friends, extended family and support networks can really provide support, they can offer to help organise an activity for the children taking the pressure of the grieving parents. Being able to see their other children join in with the celebrations can be a huge weight lifted of their shoulders. They can often feel guilty that they do not feel able to participate in things like they used to and knowing that the kids are not missing out can be an enormous help. Just being there for them might give them that extra bit of strength to keep going when all they want to do is stop.

For those that have a strong faith they may find this time of year quite the opposite, they can draw strength from attending the Easter services and being around people who share their views. They may feel that going to their church brings them closer to their child and the extra services that are going on can allow them to be around others for support.

Whatever way you find the best for you to get through these holidays please remember to spare a thought for any parents or families that you know that might be really struggling with their grief. Dropping them a text or nipping round to check that they are ok can make a big difference.

If you are worried about a family or you are a bereaved parent who is finding this holiday period difficult remember that we are always here to offer help and support. 
Go to our website, www.Charlies-Angel-Centre.org.uk, to look at the ways we can help you. The telephone numbers to contact us are on there and there is always someone there at the end of the phone to listen to you.

Please Don't struggle on alone.