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Here you'll find advice from parents and teachers on special needs education.

PA bereavement and returning to work

1 reply

Anon572747525991 · 18/09/2025 08:04

Dd,6, has had a wonderful PA for the last 2.5 years. She was actually DD's nursery worker at specialist nursery.

The PA, Penny (not her real name) had a close family friend who had been battling a serious illness for the past couple for years. Very sadly she declined in June and was on palliative care until she passed away during the holidays. Penny did not work once her friend became seriously unwell as she needed to be there for her. I've kept in touch with Penny throughout.

The funeral was 2 weeks ago and though Penny hasn't had time off from her day job she hasn't returned to PA work. I obviously understand she's grieving and has had a terrible time of it. I've not said anything at all about returning as if she felt ready she'd let me know I would think.

Selfishly I'm really struggling without the PA support. Those of you who use PAs will know how difficult it is to find good, reliable ones. I've tried to recruit throughout the summer with no luck as yet.

Id really like to ask Penny if she might return in the near future but cant think how to wors it without sounding like an insensitive b*tch.

Advice welcomed, TIA

OP posts:
flawlessflipper · 18/09/2025 14:13

I think it is OK to ask Penny if/when she intends to return.

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