Support network for mum who lost daughter 9 months ago?

[chocolatekimmy]

Is anyone aware of a network/agency/charity that puts people in touch with other bereaved parents?

My friends daughter died suddenly and unexpectedly last year, she was only 15. My friend is suffering tremendously, its all still very raw, but feels that she needs to talk to someone who knows what she is going through now - no so much someone who lost a child say years ago.

She's had two bad experiences with counsellors - one she could never get hold of and another turned up and said "all i know is that you lost your daughter and she had downs syndrome" (she didn't have downs by the way)

[amyjade]

The Compassionate friends is fantastic please tell you friend to have a look at their website. They have a parents forum, meeting point and they also have local support groups.
www.TCF.org.uk

[3littlefrogs]

They have a network of support for siblings too. I wish more people knew about them - including health and social services!

[chocolatekimmy]

Thank you

[rahrah1]

I lost my son recently (Just after birth) so very different from your friend, but I was given the number of CRUSE. I have not called them yet as it is still early for me, but I know of other people that have used them. Some for children and some for partners, had good feedback about them. I think this is their number: 0800 616171.

I really hope your friend gets the support she needs, it is the worst thing in the world losing your child. My heart really goes out to her. XXX

[Galmum]

I second Amyjade - get in touch with compassionate friends. I have been to a few meetings since losing my son in June aged 3. They also have everything from a helpline to book recommendations.

I found the last couple of meetings helpful. I think they may be good for your friend, if you can find a local group. My only issue with my local meeting is that most of the parents tend to be of older children - mainly teenagers and early 20s - not so good for me. I'm not sure the meetings are for me in the long term, but for now it has helped me try and cope with losing my son.

I wish you friend all the best - I'm thinking of her. xxx

[chocolatekimmy]

Rahrah and Galmum (Not sure if amyjade and 3littlefrogs are also speaking from experience), you are both incredible offering such support having been through what must be the most awful thing imaginable. Thank you for posting and my deepest sympathy for your loss. It will have changed your life forever and I hope that you have plenty of support around you too.