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Original poster

What to say to work colleague who is losing a child

53 replies

Gofastboatsmojito · 06/01/2025 15:09

Hi,

Not sure of the right place to post so I hope this is OK here. Bereavement felt intrusive of me

A work colleague, I'm his manager, is likely losing a teenage child this year. I'd really appreciate some guidance from any one who is kind enough to share some wisdom about what to say or what to avoid

I will speak to HR at work too but they can be quite robotic, and really i want to be the best human I can be when it happens so it's that side I'm after advice for.

Thanks

OP posts:

murasaki · 06/01/2025 22:40

The fact that you are thinking about it so much means you must be a good manager. You may not get it entirely right, but the fact you are trying will be noted, I'm sure, if only later on. Lots of good advice here.

sushibelt · 07/01/2025 06:34

elliejjtiny · 06/01/2025 18:46

Not really relevant for you as you are his manager but when my son's teacher's dd died the head teacher kept sending apologetic emails about the supply teachers that kept leaving after a week or 2. I made a point of telling him at school pick up that we didn't mind and that the most important thing was that the teacher was being supported. The head teacher often taught the class himself as well and still does sometimes.

Not at all relevant as you say. Plus apologising for not being able to find a longer term cover is fair enough. It's OK to acknowledge the impact on the classes teaching.

sushibelt · 07/01/2025 06:35

elliejjtiny · 06/01/2025 16:18

My son's teacher 's dd died suddenly. I made a note of the anniversary and her birthday and always send a card.

I'd be careful with that. Some people would hate it and go to work to work. You're over stepping boundaries a bit there.

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