Providing vital support to siblings
In each of our 3 hospices, we have a dedicated Sibling Support Team who support siblings of babies, children and young people receiving care from CHSW, maintaining connections in the hospice, at home and virtually. The teams offer support to parents around their grieving children following the death of their sibling, offering advice and a listening ear when the grief feels overwhelming.
The Sibling Support Team provide an opportunity for siblings to meet others who understand their unique family situation following the death of a sibling or who live with a sibling who has a life-limiting condition. Meeting others, having fun, sharing stories, concerns and worries, and feeling understood can enable the development of meaningful connections and friendships.
Kirianna finds friendship and fun with the Sibling Support Team
11 year old Kirianna enjoys spending time with the Sibling Support Team, which provides dedicated support and care to the brothers and sisters of babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions.
When we go to the hospice, I get to play with the Sibling Support Team which is always a lot of fun because we get to do different activities together every day and sometimes other siblings are there too. I get to make new friends. I like playing with other siblings because they understand what life is like with a sister like mine.
Sibling Support
Our support offered by the Sibling Support Teams has valuable therapeutic benefits, providing understanding without the need for explanation.
In-house activities
Crafts in messy play, baking in the kitchen, and games in the gardens.
Out of the house activities
Everyday experiences from trips to the cinema, to visiting the local zoo.
Family activities
Shared family experiences without the worry of 24 hour care - helping families build precious memories.
Teenage weekends
Residentials for teenagers, whose needs can be very different, ensuring they have access to vital support.
Ongoing contact
We provide a listening ear and on-going support in between stays.
Hand in hand with siblings
Sally is a member of the Sibling Support Team at Little Bridge House. In this video she talks about the special care that Children's Hospice South West offers to brothers and sisters of children and young people with life-limited conditions.
